Same Time...Next Year

Did you know that it is a proven fact that having friends can increase our life expectancy? The Nurses' Health Study from Harvard Medical School confirmed that the more friends women have, the less likely they are to have physical ailments with the progression of the natural aging process which would manifest itself in an overall happier life.

If this is true, then my Meredith College friends and I have extended our lives a multitude of years. We have a beach reunion every September -- or could it be more accurately described as a rejuvenation and massage of the soul? Time stands still for the savoring therapy for all where we cast aside our concerns to take care of ourselves. There's camaraderie between us that is unsurpassed.

By happenstance and fortunate fate, the twenty of us ended up together on the same hall our freshmen year. We requested to stay together for the remaining three years, on other halls, as well. We each went our separate ways after graduation, but we've lingered on the same hall in our minds for the past thirty years. We are always in touch with each other, as we go through the progression of life.

We used to plan our classes around General Hospital. Now we plan our lives around our children and busy work schedules. However, in spite of this, we rearrange our lives for this special weekend. And why not? We essentially watched each other grow up, as we camped out in each other's rooms until late in the night -- sharing and caring, laughing and crying, bonding and nurturing. We were and are each other's nourishing lifelines and serve as each other's charity of choice.

We have journeyed together, walking closely beside each other throughout life's upheavals and celebrations. We've attended receiving lines of wedding joy and ones for funeral sorrow. Not to mention the baby births, a few divorces, and rekindled love.This particular group of friends is like a giant bowl of Brunswick stew where all the ingredients are different, but necessary for unique richness and flavor'"a combination that is palatably pleasing with a mix of just the right personalities. We know each other so well that sometimes just a look will suffice as acknowledgment and understanding. The common denominator for us is that we all find life to be entertaining and amusing. We're always on the precipice of bursting into laughter at any given moment when in each other's company. It's that whoop-it-up, knee-slapping, cheekbone hurting, unable to catch your breath, endorphin-releasing kind of laughter that extends our lives --

Establishing and taking care of our special friendships should be a top life priority. Our friends are the equity line of credit that balances our lives and strengthens our spirits. Lengthen your life by inviting your friends to come a little closer, laugh a little longer to cultivate your heart and soul. Nurture your friendships and reap the benefits.

Let your friends know your care... And let your friends care about you --
Enjoy every millisecond of joy that the beauty of friendships provides!!