Never Goodbye, just See You Later

I've had to say farewell to two very dear friends in 2014 as God saw fit that they relocate to a location far enough away that I can't drive to see them quickly whenever I like. It was difficult to bid them farewell, not knowing the next time that I'd see them. I don't often consider that when I build relationships with people that there is the possibility that we'll have to part ways and break the routine of fellowshipping together. God brings people in and out of our lives over the course of life's journey for reasons that we may not understand for the moment. I'm learning to be thankful for every moment that I have with loved ones that I've been blessed to share life with.

While in the short period of saying farewell, I've been able over the past few months to be able to say hello to new friends which has been an immense blessing. Some people God has seen fit to bring back into my life after years of being separated because of distance and other folks are new people that I'm coming to know. Within this circle of people one amazing common factor that is binding us together is Christ. While I realize that God expects me to be salt and light in this perverse world and I shouldn't strive to exclude myself from the lost, it is encouraging to be surrounded and encouraged by those that are like-minded in their desires to honor God. These new friends and returning friends that God has brought into my life in the past few months recognize God as the supreme head of their lives, though their life journey has been different from mine. Because of the differences in our Christian walk, their life stories, gifts & talents, and prayers are intertwining with my own life and providing a source of encouragement to me.

When I think back to my initial gut reaction of learning that my old friends were moving away, never did I consider the new and returning friends that God would bring into my life to enrich and enhance my life. This is all an example of the compassion of God and how He knows what we need, when we need it. The relationships that we're able to build with God's children never end. At some point we'll all say good bye to this life. If Jesus Christ is our Savior, it will never be good bye, only see you later .... in Heaven.

One of the side benefits of meeting new people and reconnecting with old friends, is being able to glean from their gifts and talents! One of these friends has taught me to knit. Oh boy, what a joy it has been to learn a new skill that results in me being able to make something with my own hands! I must admit, knitting is a little addictive. Once you get started with something its hard to put down. For my first project, I'm attempting to make a basket-weaved scarf. I will post some pictures soon of my progress thus far.

I'm hoping to become confident enough to teach my crafty girls one day...