hot mess friendships

_Friendship like Esther.

Some of my most treasured blessings are my closest friends. As an extrovert and a Nurse it is safe to say that I like people. I like to be around people. I like to hear their stories. I can also say that since having the opportunity to be at James Place, I now am comfortable with any person. I can share my faith so much easier than before. And God uses people to knit our stories together. 

The past few months have really allowed me to see how much friendship is a gift straight from the good Lord. Helping a loved one with alcohol addiction and other mental illnesses is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. 

WAIT. 

I take that back. 

LOVING someone with an alcohol addiction and other mental illnesses is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. 

In the beginning of this journey I said that I didn't love him yet but the most I could do was show him love through my actions. But there were days when I couldn't choose love. Frustration, hurt, selfishness and pride took the front seat. 

And that's when friends came in.

How I love to share fun times with friends. Those moments are  obviously treasured. But the ones I value most are the times when a friend calls and says that she is going to drive over 4 hours to get to where I am to do whatever needs to be done at my Dad's house so that when he gets home from his first detox, he can have a real shot at sobriety. 

Another friend calls and tells me never to apologize asking for help-saying it in a text would not have been personal enough so she chose to speak words right through the phone and straight into my heart. 

Another couple texts and says "We are leaving now (to help with the house) and if you try calling to talk us out of it we won't answer". 

Friends who have allergies but still come. Friends who give up time with their kids. Friends who pray for not just me- but my family and my Dad. 

I have seen that my Dad has no solid support from his "friends". I used to think me and my brother were all that he had. But my friends have chosen to love him. I have always loved the term "hot mess". Just today, one of these dear friends gave me a beautiful note and a sweatshirt that embraces real life. We love each other, even amidst the hot messes of life. 

I am grateful for my friends who chose to love me by also loving someone I am learning to love. You can't take them from me, but I will share:) I have asked several to be guest bloggers on this site and you too will be blessed from their words and examples. I can't wait for you to meet them! 

_Friendship like Esther. ​