Friends You Can Count On

I am proud to have many great friends.  Friends who I know I can count on when I need a laugh, need a favor or even need someone to join me for a beer.

Over the past 2 months I have seen the generosity of one couple exceed my wildest expectations.  And believe me, my expectations were not low.  I'll refrain from using any names as this is the world wide web and these people did not ask for any notoriety (nor did I ask them before writing this).  And that is not the purpose of this short post.  The purpose is just for me to express my gratitude for those people in this world who still are willing to put others in front of themselves so that they can improve lives.

A friend of ours is in need.  In need of direction, in need of assistance.  Many of us wanted to help.  Thought of ways we could help.  But none of us could do what one couple was able to do.  In their latest display of generosity this couple opened their heart, opened their home and took this individual under their wing.  From being there when our friend hit bottom to knowing the right path to point him on to help pick him back up.  This couple gave up their regular lives for roughly 72 hours to be nothing more than a friend.  And it did not seem to even disrupt their kids lives.  Perhaps this is not the first time these two have opened their home.  Perhaps the kids just understand at their young ages that this is what friends do.

To this incredible loving and caring couple I offer this.  You did not just change one person's life this weekend.  You helped change the life for everyone who loves that person.  And, as I got to see your selflessness 1st hand today...you have impacted my world in a way I cannot explain.

I am proud to call you friends.  I am proud to call you my brother.

This journey with our dear friend is not over yet, there will other tough times I am sure.  But I will take a clue from you two next time I am needed...and I will strive to be the supporting friends you two are.