A GIRLFRIEND

Each person we meet along our life's journey, impacts us in a small or big way. I have always been blessed with a wonderful family and supportive friends. Of those, one of my most amazing gifts is having kindred spirits around. Hence; a girlfriend.

A woman can talk to another woman with ease and comfort knowing that their girlfriend understands, knows and cares. There is no judgment, just compassion and love.

"Janice", who is grieving the recent decline of her elderly father, is a perfect example of the importance of a supportive girlfriend. Janice and I were discussing her grief and what helps her cope, when she stated, "My life is full of stressors." Janice shared some examples of her stresses. Most were associated with how she didn't do something in a perfect way as had to do with the tasks needed to reach a certain goal. She was particularly hard on herself.

Janice appeared anxious and stressed throughout most of our visit. Toward the end of our time together though, Janice started talking about her girlfriend whom she met in high school. Her entire persona changed to comfort while she shared how her friend supported her. Janice stated, "It feels so good just to talk with her." It is Janice's friend who will who will be there for her throughout her father's disease process and decline.

I have a magnet on my refrigerator that says, "There is nothing better than a girlfriend, except a girlfriend with chocolate." That magnet was given to me by a dear friend who also understands the importance of a good girlfriend.


A GIRLFRIEND

I meet a lot of women in my work.
Exceptional souls with distinctive personalities.
But one thing, I do believe, most do agree,
"There is nothing better than a girlfriend."

Our girlfriends listen to us because they care.
They understand what we are feeling.
Good or bad, we can speak our true minds.
Their unconditional love is forever more.

Her elderly dad is weak and getting more confused.
She knows he gets good care from the staff,
but it still is hard to see his decline.
Who he was has been gone for a long time.

She has a nervous personality,
but I was still a bit surprised,
when I asked her how she copes,
she knowingly replied,
             "I cope by being anxious."

There is one thing though that is working well.
A high school buddy she has known for years.
"Talking with her helps me so much.
She understands where I am coming from."

Another perfect example
of what we ladies do all agree;
"There is nothing better
             than a girlfriend!"