My best friend got engaged. We knew it was coming but then again we didn’t. We talked about the possibilities and played out the scenarios but nothing makes it real until it really happens. Well it really happened.
And all of a sudden, memories of our shared singlehood flash across my minds’ eye.
Like that time we laid in bed giggling all night about her then boyfriend and the possibility of them getting married (they didn’t by the way). Or the time we lay in bed on my trip to her beloved Haiti sharing the sorrows we had of walking out extended singleness. I prayed for her that night, feeling the weight of her longing and pain. I had such an amazing time during my visit. If only I would have known that would be the last one, where she would be–well–alone.
Or the time she turned one of those early 30’s numbers and I talked to her for 2 hours on the phone (because she was in another country and that’s all I could do) about how God was trustworthy, and extended singleness was hard, but He was still good. Only a few years later would her season change. But we didn’t know that at the time…
I never knew this woman would become so dear to me. She entered my life when things were questionable and I didn’t think I needed any more friends. I couldn’t have been more wrong. I have needed her desperately especially in this season. I have needed her to intercede for me and war when I couldn’t remember my own identity. When I looked in the mirror and didn’t recognize the face staring back. I needed her to call me each morning when I was recovering from one breakup or another. I needed to hear her voice when I no longer could hear the voice of our Father, and I questioned His existence…
She was faithful. Faithful to be with me regardless of my choices and decisions. Faithful when I wasn’t sure if I was coming or going. We walked out a difficult time, but our sisterhood added sweetness to it.
We are like minded. We have similar values and a similar desire to manifest true wholeness. We share a call to stand out and be set apart in this generation. And for the first time since we met (a nice summer day in 2007 that we both remember) we are in different seasons. Very different seasons.
God is purposeful. And I believe each season is to prepare us for the next season.
This has been a season where He has not ministered to me directly by His Spirit. Instead He has used people and circumstances to reveal Himself. She is one of those people He has chosen over and over again to do so. Her pureness of heart, vivacious appetite for life and fierce loyalty are character traits I admire and am not deserving of.
When your best friend gets married you have a host of emotions. SO much change. So little time. The time you waited for has finally come, but when it comes, it comes suddenly. It is a reminder that seasons do change. And that we must cherish them while they are here for that very reason.
When your best friend gets married, you wish her the best because she is so worth the best. You are reminded that as similar as you are, and as close as you have been, you are still two different people. I have my path and she has hers. And God willing, we will still walk together on this path of life.
Congratulations to a woman who has been more than a friend to me. She has truly been a sister.
Always rooting for you Ji❤️.
Love,
Nicole
Love this post! Earlier this year a close friend I’ve walked through “extended singleness” with got married. Our friendship has shifted and changed, but it’s still strong and one of my favorite relationships in life. I hope you and your best friend continue to walk together.
Thx Erica!!! One thing that stands out to me is the sweetness of our friendship that was provided during a difficult time😊