There is nothing like a good friend.
I'm not talking about the type of friend who warrants superficial conversation, conversations that never move beyond gossip or small talk.
I'm talking about the type of friend who you crave seeing, the type of friend you know has the power to justify your feelings and lift you up, no matter how silly your frustrations may seem.
I'm talking about the type of friend who you can share things with that others might judge you for, but she'll laugh with you and understand better than anyone else in the world.
I am blessed enough to have a handful of these friends. Friends who I know would do anything in the world for me, and I for them.
However, there is one woman who I have found to be the equivalent of a soul mate. Is there a soul mate for friends? If so, she is mine.
Sweet, unbelievably warm Betty. A woman who has been a tremendous blessing in my life.
Our friendship developed slowly at first, just short hellos exchanged in the hallway, complimenting one another's shoes. It makes perfect sense, as I look back now, that our friendship would truly blossom over two things: sangria and Shauna Niequest.
Betty and I spent hours sipping our sangria, talking about life, faith and dreams. The best part? It was easy. To find someone who is so similar to me, yet makes me want to always be a better version of myself, is rare, but also extremely refreshing.
I have realized, especially over the past couple of years, that my ideas and expectations for friendship have changed. They have grown, matured, with me. I hope for friends that I can share more than just my clothes with, but instead, my hopes, my dreams, my beliefs and my fears. I want friends that I can laugh with over a glass of wine, without having to be anyone other than myself. I want friends who challenge me. I want friends who build me up, when I am at my lowest. I want friends who value my friendship as much as I value theirs.
I hope all of you are lucky enough to find a friend like Betty, one you swear was made just for you.
