A friend loves at all times, and a sister is born for a time of adversity.
Proverbs 17:17

It's no secret that yours truly is a little "out of sorts" lately; and although I am determined to make this a limited engagement, the fact remains. This is when it's so important to have a friend.  A friend will call, leave a message on your machine, and say stuff like, "I'm not stalking you- well, maybe I am. Are you OK?" They are sensitive to the ministry you need, when you need it. Do I need a swift kick in the pants? They'll put the boot on.  Or do I need a replenished kleenex supply? They've got a coupon. A friend knows that sympathetic silence speaks volumes, and comic relief is just what the doctor ordered.
 A friend is the person that has a pocketful of "grace coupons" and doles them out by the fistful when you're blabbering or crying, or digging hole to crawl in.
Which reminds me of a story.....

This guy's walkin' down a street when he falls in a hole. The walls are so steep he can't get out. A doctor passes by and the guy shouts up, "Hey you! Can you help me out?" The doctor writes a prescription, throws it down in the hole, and moves on. Then a priest comes along and the guy shouts up, "Father, I'm down in this hole; can you help me out?" The priest writes out a prayer, throws it down in the hole and moves on. Then a friend walks by. "Hey, Joe, it's me. Can ya help me out?" And the friend jumps in the hole. Our guy says, "Are ya crazy? Now we're both down here." The friend says, "Yeah, but I've been down here before and I know the way out.
-Leo McGary, from the West Wing.
(that's a friend.)

*God help me to treasure and steward my friendships. They are a gift from You.