Friendships Work

"Female friendships that work are relationships in which women help each other belong to themselves." - Louise Bernikow, educator, writer, and feminist

I don't know what I would do without my friendships. The bond I have with the women in my life is so strong that I'm overwhelmed with gratitude. I have many friendships, both with men and women. But I must admit that there are several women in my life who've helped me so much that I will never be able to repay them completely. They loved and supported me when I couldn't love myself. They truly saved me over and over again.
It also never occurred to me early in my adulthood that I could belong to myself. I chose to exist and survive each day of my life rather than to live and find joy. All of my friends, in one way or another, have shown me a new way to live and now I belong to myself. My life is filled with happiness, joy, challenges, and work. And it's all good. I've learned much from my beautiful friends and I will continue to follow their example as well as be there for them when needed.

Thank you God for the men and women in my life today, who love me for who I am and not for what they can get from me. May I be of maximum service to all of them whenever they need help. I am grateful for those opportunities today. And so it is.