Because I have lived in a few different places I have friends in other states and other parts of the world. Two friends especially come to mind, both have two children, and both I have had a close friendship of over 20 years. Felicity and JoLynn.
Today we are not close by living next door to one another but close in that we share a deep respect and love for one another. And yeah, it is warm and fuzzy when we have the opportunity to be physically together.
Every time we talk, the topics always and I mean every time, includes our kids.
Even though we do not see each other in the flesh often, in different states different countries, I find myself completely captivated by discovering and learning about what these young adults are doing. I love these kids.
One summer afternoon I was visiting JoLynn and while we were at the local coffee shop I brought up a hassle one of my children was having and honestly, it was based on a bad or unfortunate or wrong decision made, (whatever you want to call it). JoLynn didn’t bat an eye, and by her tone of voice and facial expression, I knew it didn’t matter, no judgment. I remember at the time I was completely struck with the idea, she doesn’t care!
I looked at JoLynn over my espresso cup and warm pastry and continued the kid-story ending with it doesn’t matter does it, you love my kids no matter what decisions they make? Jo smiled and said, yes.
Felicity’s girls are easy to love They are outgoing and lovely and personable and respect their mother. How can I go wrong there with feeling the love? These young women have their mother’s laughter and sense of adventure, travel often, and not afraid to state their opinions on any and every topic imaginable. Our visits are priceless.
Soon after this coffee with JoLynn and spending time with Felicity, I began to take inventory of my feelings for my friend’s kids and moved the feeling inventory to include kids I know, but do not have a close relationship with their parents. A few came to mind, then a few more.
I began a list.
This was a complicated puzzle and as I moved the pieces I began to see what draws me to someone much younger than myself. And I was in for a powerful surprise when I realized the draw isn’t the parents every time and in fact, the parents may just be a fortunate add-on.
The best way I can say this is that I surprisingly discovered it is the bold spirit, high energy, and warm character that draws me in, and when I am open to listen, learn and enjoy this person and all their idiosyncrasies and passionate views and language, I become more.
