I have the greatest friends. Some old, some new, some whom I know only through this blog or my online support group. Each and every relationship enriches my life; when it comes to friendship, I am a wealthy woman indeed.
In this time of fresh challenges, my friends have played an important supporting role. Knowing that I have at times been overwhelmed, they have helped us make arrangements for additional help when David is traveling. A special friend has set aside some of his Hilton points in case an overnight stay in Boston is necessary. Several days ago I received not one, but two beautiful flower arrangements in the same day from the same friend. “Just a little color to brighten your day!” read the first enclosure. Several hours later some beautiful roses were delivered, with another note enclosed: “A little more color–and hopefully some fragrance too!”
fresh blooms
A dear friend who is also battling cancer and who has availed herself of alternative treatments sent me a card with a generous check, so that I can explore the same option. Yet another friend made arrangements for me to receive counsel on a matter that was troubling me, and she picked up the tab.
All of the emails, cards, messages, phone calls and comments mean the world to me—thank you for taking the time.
I’ll close with a quote about friendship that sort of says it all. The author is Jon Katz, who has written a lot of books about dogs (and as dogs are man’s best friend, Mr. Katz probably knows a thing or two about friendship):
“I think if I’ve learned anything about friendship, it’s to hang in, stay connected, fight for them, and let them fight for you. Don’t walk away, don’t be distracted, don’t be too busy or tired, don’t take them for granted. Friends are part of the glue that holds life and faith together. Powerful stuff.”
life and breath: outliving lung cancer 
Love the quote by Katz. Also so very thankful that you have great friends looking out for you–making your life a bit lighter. Wonderful! Keep fighting, Linnea!
Carolyn, you know I will!
Linnea
I totally agree that friendship is priceless. Thru my LC journey, I have gain so many friends that gave me mental support. Linnea, your journey has given me the positive outlook on life. Always look forward to hear from you. Let’s pray that 2013 will be a good year for all of us. Also, 2013 is a year of tiger which my younger son will be 36 in June.
Joan from Calif.
Joan, I am happy to hear that 2013 is the year of the tiger—and I can’t believe your youngest will be 36! I second the motion that 2013 brings us all good luck and even better news.
Linnea
Amen. And, Hallelujah for a friend like you in the world.
xoCristina
Swedishchica, you know I feel the same way about you.
xoLinnea
You are blessed with wonderful friends.And they are blessed because you know it!
Doubly blessed!
Linnea
Love the work of Jon Katz! I do believe we can learn a lot from animals in the way they relate to each other and us. Also, thank you for sharing the ways that people have helped support you — how generous and thoughtful of them but also speaks to how much they care for you.
I think all animals but in their own way, dogs in particular, can teach us a lot about loyalty, patience and trust. Playfulness and plain old readiness too. All good qualities in a friend.
Linnea
Hi Linnea,
Thanks for sharing of yourself thru these difficult times. As I sit here with a friend struggling with depression and not able to be alone, I shared this latest blog with her and we both really appreciated hearing your words and the importance of friendship. I get how we need to support each other and how this connection is vital to our survival and reason for being.
Many blessings on you and send our love to Dave and the kids.
Hey Roy—sounds as if you are being a good friend. In all of life, it is (in my humble opinion) our connections with others that matter most (so I guess we are in agreement!).
love to you and your two beauties,
Linnea
I just love you so much. Glad you are being showered with brightness in many forms. You are well loved my friend. xxo
Lorraine, and you know I just love you so much. Love makes the world go around…(or at least makes orbiting meaningful!)
Linnea
Love the quote by Katz…. It’s very heartwarming to hear that you are receiving so much love and support. xo
Thank you Susan. And I agree that Mr. Katz said it very well…
Linnea