The finest things in life are those you neither sell nor buy,
A bursting bud – a bird that sings, a glowing Western sky,
And friends to love; all well worth their weight in gold,
May you always know their joys which you’ll forever hold.
-Caroline Bowes Tombo
Instead of some tangible thing, what could we give to another as a heartfelt token of our appreciation and our desire to be their friend? I should think that by utilizing our demeanor we could offer a warm and sparkling smile, a “yes” nod of the head or a hand to shake; a congratulatory pat on the shoulder or offer to take them out for a steak! Also, then, by using our words, to offer a studied compliment, to encourage or sympathize (as the case may be); or a remark about how nice they look and how we enjoy their company. To give pleasure by a thoughtful and caring remark can easily lift another person’s spirit.
All of that, along with the giving of our time and sincere presence, along with our offer to help or just listen to their problems is a precious gesture. Giving someone your undivided attention, especially in our hectic and distracted world, is a most meaningful gift – letting someone in – telling them personal things – trusting them and asking for advice.
“Making friends is a lot of fun, shaking hands with everyone,
Hearing what each has to say as we meet them day to day,
Swapping smiles and trading cheer makes us happy while we’re here,
‘Cause all the joy of life depends on the art of making and keeping friends.”
“A true test of friendship is to sit or walk with a friend for an hour in perfect silence without wearying of one another’s company.” I had just such a friend for most of my life. Wayne Duzan took leave from this earth on his way to heaven almost twelve years ago now. I still miss him here…a lot, but we’ll meet again on the other side and be together forever!
-John Driggers, Spiritual Advisor for Myers-Davis (4/21/2025, V7#16)
