Attention Blogging Buddies
In 2007, I was introduced to blogging. With that introduction, I was blessed with the discovery of so many indescribably special friendships. These friendships know no boundaries or restrictions due to distance. These friends got to know 'me', the true me, without the distractions of physical issues which sometimes prevent someone from taking the time to get to know the real person.
In six short months, these friends have stood by me when I was sad, scared, confused, lost, worried, nervous, angry, and depressed. These same friends have celebrated with me, cheered me on, laughed with me, and joined in with me when I was in a silly mood.
When we first arrived for our holiday visit, I immediately raced to the nearest computer. My BBFF (Tammy) had received results of a biopsy, and I had been traveling and unable to be there with her and find out the news. I knew it would be good news through, because I had prayed so much that God was going to make it OK just so He could get me to shut up ;-) As I anxiously checked my e-mail, I was asked "Is this 'one of those online friends'?" "Well, I met her online. Does that answer your question?"
Then I heard it... I knew is was coming, and I have become more and more intolerable of this comment or way of thinking... "So, she's not a REAL friend then?"
I just smiled and calmly replied, "Oh yes, she's a real friend. I have many wonderful 'real' friends whom I've never met face-t0-face, yet I say prayers for them every night. They have real families and real lives. They have real feelings and emotions, real worries, real dreams, real ideas, and real talents. These friendships are REAL blessings, which I wouldn't trade for anything. And, honestly, sometimes I think these friendships are more 'real' than others, because with these friendships, you get to know the 'real' person and that is what the friendship is based upon. Am I real? You don't doubt that I'm real; just like Tammy's son, daughter, and husband certainly have no doubts that Tammy is real. And, I have no doubt that these friendships are real!"
That was the first night I arrived, and, after that, my online friendships were not questioned again.
These friends I keep referring to, of course, are all of you! I am thankful for the opportunity to meet all of you. I am thankful for everything you have done for me. I am thankful for the friendships you have given me. I am looking forward to being friends through this next year. I am thankful that you are REAL.
