A Friend Drops By 2013
According to my old Webster’s Dictionary, “Friend is one who is personally well known by oneself and for whom one has warm regard and affection.” Just such a friend knocked at our door a day or two ago and what a surprise. It had been a super busy morning in the kitchen and clean-up was under way. As I greeted this old friend, I said, “Let me wipe this table off and we’ll go to a more comfortable place to sit.” Now this long-time-no-see friend says, “Let me wipe the table.” I quickly handed him the sponge as I was tee totally exhausted. What a friend.
The Home Place
We met this couple (a home economist and an architect) some forty years ago in Marietta and although John and I were old enough to be their parents we became good friends. Even though we had all moved from Cobb County, when we used to visit back in the Atlanta area we’d always go by, just as though they were family.
Later they had a family and the little ones called us Mimi and Pap just like our granddaughter did. Years pass so quickly and now these “little ones” are adults. During the conversation, we had to catch up on the children and what they’re doing. The son lives and works in Bermuda and the daughter is in medical school. I can’t believe they are this age.
Much conversation was about his wife, a victim of MS. She is the most active MS person you’ll ever meet taking an active part in their church and bible study group. Vicki is a food specialist and many times I’ve asked why my cake had a “sad streak” or some other stupid question.
What a delightful surprise visit this was to the old couple. Needless to say, I had to gather up a few things for him to take home with him — then he gave us a new birdhouse. Our birds will be delighted, too. This visit reminded me of a poem written by Joseph Parry:
Make new friends, but keep the old
Those are silver, these are gold
New made friendships, like new wine,
Age will mellow and refine.
Cherish friendship in your breast
New is gold, but old is best
Make new friends, but keep the old