Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall into pieces. Proverbs 13:20
Proverbs 13:20 and this week's reflection remind us that we are the company we keep. As mothers, we feel the same way for our children, which is why we try to surround them with good friends, positive opportunities, and a loving, nurturing environment. Do you set up playdates for your children? How do you choose those playdates? Do the playdates give positive opportunities for your children to play and interact? If only we had as much control over their friends as they grew older!
And what about you? Do you surround yourself with good friends and positive people? Our friend choices serve as an example for our children - so we need to mindful of who we associate with. This past week, I spoke at an event that I helped to plan - the United Way of Milford's Women with United Vision kickoff breakfast. At the end of the breakfast, we went around the room and allowed the 20 attendees to introduce themselves. I thought at the conclusion of the introductions, "wow, these are women that I want to surround myself with." The women shared the same vision - to help women and children of Milford who were less fortunate. I'm thrilled to be able to align myself with such an accomplished group of women. I'm excited to see where this journey brings us and the friendships that are formed.
I think it's also important to mention that friendships, like any other relationships, need to be nurtured and nourished. It takes time and dedication to build strong friendships. I must say that I'm blessed to have the friends that I do, especially my best friend Stephanie. We've been building our friendship since sixth grade (and hard to believe that we're now 30!). We take the time to talk to each other at least two mornings a week as we drive into work and we talk on the weekend too. I think in this digital age, the phone is underused as I have other friends who only text or send an email - although I appreciate the interactions, I must say I would really like to speak on the phone instead as so much gets lost over email. Pick up the phone this week and call a friend. Then, take a minute to be grateful for that friend and say an extra prayer of thanksgiving!
Posts
Jennifer, I am so proud of your involvement with the United Way! I don't know how you find the time, but as my parents always say, you make time for what is important. So...I need to apologize to all my friends! I am not very good at keeping in touch. I have come to enjoy my few moments of peace and quiet instead of connecting with my friends. So when we do get a chance to talk, we do so for an hour! And God has given me such amazing friends! My best friend, Whitney, goes way back to middle school as well. She keeps me afloat as do my girls from church. They are such positive influences, and I learn so much about God and how to live for Christ from each of them. Thank you so much!
ReplyDelete