06.17.09
A Different Kind of Family
I harp on my family a lot, but I know that they will always be there for me and will always be on my side- even when I’m factually wrong (this is especially true of my mom who has actually proven this on occasion). For that I will always feel loved by them. But, as you’ve read, that love comes with many challenges and heartaches.
And so, I guess you could say that over the years I’ve found a different kind of support from friends. It’s taken me an incredibly long time, but I finally have a group of friends who are kind and funny and down-to-earth and reliable and I’m so grateful for it. And I was lucky enough to have those disparate friendships coalesce for my birthday.
Once we’d all gathered, I looked around the table at all the smiling faces and felt…special. These friends, both new and old, had gathered for me, all for me. Friends from high school, college, work friends both current and former and their spouses. And even though there were those unable to attend and even though one chair sat empty for the friend who chose not to come and who I seem to be losing, being in the company of this group- this family- was one of the best birthdays I’ve ever had.
After dinner when the flan arrived, candle lit, and the singing began; call it cheesy if you want, but I felt such a swell of emotion- gratitude, love, support, wealth- that it was all I could do not to let a birthday tear or two slip. Instead, I blew out the candle and didn’t make a wish. With the friends I already love around me and the boyfriend I’m falling for at my side, I had all that I could have hoped for. And I felt happy.
Ashton Likes said,
June 17, 2009 at 10:12 am
While reading this, I had flashbacks to my last birthday. There was a moment I looked around my house full of great, amazing people, all of whom I’ve only known for a couple of years, and felt so, so fortunate.
But hey, it was your party, you could have cried if you wanted to!
Chica said,
June 18, 2009 at 2:22 am
Wonderful stuff, congratulations, I’m glad you had such a lovely birthday
Erin said,
June 19, 2009 at 7:58 am
This is a wonderful post and you are a beautiful writer.
nic said,
June 21, 2009 at 8:16 am
Ashton Likes- that’s exactly how it felt- fortunate.
chica- first, I’m so glad you’re returning to blogging. I’ve missed you! And second, it was lovely, thank you.
Erin- this comment totally made my day. Thank you for saying so.