So, on a different note

I don't have anything negative to say. Odd, considering it's coming from me =)

These past few weeks have sort of been a whirlwind of emotion. I have had my perspective totally warped, but I suppose in a good way?

I met some new friends, who are very much the kind of people I have searched for these past few years. They are kind and loving, and don't seem to mind that I like to attach myself to them in a matter of weeks. Haha, just kidding... kinda.

My explanation? I like certain people too much. It happens every so often, I'll meet someone, and want to be friends... but they don't want or need me to be their friend. However - I believe for the very first time ever - these people at least act like they enjoy me too. They don't find me to be a nuisance, even when I honestly believe that most others would.

I could easily compare them to my extended family - and that's NOT a thought I often have. I adore my relatives... the families. Always warm and welcoming, and not too stressed about the presence of another. My family, we really enjoy one another. I can talk to each person, and feel the acceptance and the love they have for me. I can really be myself, no sarcasm, over-intellectualism, or emphasis placed on any one aspect of my personality. I can be who I really am, and feel absolutely NO need to hide anything. And although they see everything, I am still loved. Responsibility is shared joyfully... we don't worry about having 40 people in our smallish house. Everyone is considerate, and can entertain themselves. Discussions are open, and love is very apparent.

In these people, although I barely know them, I have sensed some of the same qualities. I don't necessarily have concrete evidence, but I am often right about people.... haha. I don't mean that to sound prideful.

Plus, as if that wouldn't be enough to make me love them, one must be an exhorter. For me, there are two things that make me feel love in relationships: Words of affirmation and quality time. I don't think that either one carries any more weight, but I feel like I usually go without the first in the majority of my relationships (not all). So this, this makes me LOVE my new friends.

Well I think that sums it up. It always strikes me how much my friendships can influence my day, weeks, months, years... They are inspiring, and I adore them being so. And although I know that peoples' opinions don't define my worth, I cannot deny that I feel I am of more worth when I have people I love and am loved by surrounding me.

Praise God for His goodness!

Again, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life." -Proverbs 13:12