Take comfort in friends

I had been recently feeling disconnected with the world. Working from home for several days in a row, I slipped in a slight depression about being alone, in great danger of wallowing in self pity about being on my own. No husband, no children, no regular job, and no desire to be a socialite, it was just too tempting to trap myself in that downward cycle. That's when I drew the line, and decided to ask my friend Pam to coffee today. I don't normally go out, because I'm not much for superficial interactions with people I don't really care about. But Pam is different. She and I had spent hours online text chatting with each other over the last few nights, so I felt very comfortable with spending a few more hours talking with her in person at Starbucks. It also gave me a good excuse to leave the apartment for some fresh air.

Armed with a T-mobile Internet Hotspot account, a laptop, and 2 coffee drinks, we ended up spending over three hours chatting about life. I gave her an impromptu lesson on Photoshop, and she gave me some great ideas for my business. It was a very pleasant exchange of thoughts. I went home thinking what a difference it makes having a supportive friend who could relate and share similar goals of a fulfilling life.

Later after I got home, I saw an inspiring CNBC show about a couple of T-shirt enterprenuers who made a million dollar business on their line of clothing. I immediately called Pam to share my excitement about following in their footsteps. She was genuinely excited for me, and we then discussed more ideas about expanding my business and improving the website for her private therapy practice. I no longer felt alone.

Remember to take good care of your friends. They offer something that no lover or acquaintance can provide you. True friends don't invoke any burden, anguish, envy, desire to control, or ill will. They're just there to connect with you in just the right capacity.