Old Friends

I ran into an old friend the other day. After a quick catch-up session, I realized how wonderful it is to see a friend you haven’t seen in a long time.

Old friends have a special place in our lives–or at least in mine. They share a history that newer friends don’t. They remember you when—for better or for worse.

Since my husband died, I cherish those who have memories of Dan— especially of his humor and gentle personality. Most of these friends remember how delighted he was  with Sparkle, our dog. In a way, they are a link to him now that he’s gone.

One of the best things about old friends is that you can often just pick up where you left off the last time you were together, even if it was months or years.

Sharing a history gives you a common ground to start from. Even if the first few minutes you spend together centers around asking about family and mutual friends, the familiarity is comforting.

And sometimes that’s all you can talk about. But that’s still okay. Because seeing that person is a reminder of the continuity of life and the connections we share.

When I was a teacher, there was a song I taught my Kindergarten students. It was actually a song I learned in Kindergarten.

“Make new friends, but keep the old/ One is silver and the other gold.”

Words to live by.

 

 

 

 

About Kathy

I grew up in Buffalo,New York the second eldest child in a family that eventually included eight children. The neighborhood was an Irish-American enclave. These two facts explain a great deal about me. I spent many years as a teacher who really thought of herself as a writer.

3 Responses to Old Friends

  1. Bonnie Byrne says:

    You explained the feeling very well! It is exactly why we return to our home every summer, to reconnect with old, dear friends and family. It is like wearing a pair of comfy slippers!

  2. BarbaraPowell says:

    Kathy, I love this piece! How true. I have a friend of forty years who I see infrequently, and we just pick up like the years never happened. We have a great history together. Thanks. for this delightful piece.

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