Day 120

I really like the colors in this image of a stained glass lamp. 

Nikon D200 Nikkor 85mm 1/40s F2.8 ISO 400 on a tripod.

Haven't really been able to really open up and share my thoughts for a while -- not really. Obviously the joy of being a grandfather is topmost in my heart. It's amazing to witness the miracle of a newborn. Oliva has two fantastic parents in Heather and Andrew. Maybe this image reminds me of Olivia's inner glow and the beauty she brings to all of us. Maybe I'm reminded of the wonderfully beautiful happy child that Heather was. If you ever saw her on the soccer field you would wonder if that was ever the case. Heather is a true friend. I think that's one of the things that brought her and Andrew together -- they both have that quality. True friends are hard to find, but when you do there is an eternal bond. Sure you can go through tough times, but a true friend will be there no matter what. And it's not always just about them. Friendship can't be one-sided. Won't work. I can testify to that as most of you probably can. Turn it around and if it's always about you then that won't work either. Seek to understand then be understood (something from Covey). That's a powerful thought yet very difficult to do at times. Take a deep breath and try it out sometime -- you'll be amazed. I always am when I remember to do that. Ever hear of a "streak player" in sports?  That's when everything seems to go right and you can do no wrong. And then it kinda goes back to normalcy. I, at times, find my self a "streak player" in my friendships. I can really open up and then for a while I'm the biggest clam. Maybe you can relate. Wish I could explain it, but I just deal with it and hope others understand.

I think friendships harbor on different levels. We sometimes hear the term "best friends". Perhaps that's when you have a deep filial love for another person that is returned. I think a friendship is a two-way interaction. You can give unconditional love and not have a friendship. But I think in a "best friendship" unconditional love is there. 

Just some thoughts I'm pondering tonight.  Hope you know who your friends are. I believe these wise words: by their actions you will know them.

-tom