There are lots of good things in life, but not many are as good as old friends. Not old as in worn out and ready for discard but old as in used, with a patina that only age can give. Kind of like a nice piece of furniture you have had and used your whole life...you know,.. that one you could never give up because it just fits you. That's the kind of friends I'm talking about.

We had a couple of old friends come visit for a few days last week. We have known each other for almost 60 years. He and I were in the same nursery at church as infants and our wives have known each other since their early teen days.

We have been through a lot together, on both sides. Mistakes have been made, some poor decisions, family issues have gotten in the way at times, and there have been times when we would shake our heads wondering what the others were doing. Yet, through the years, even with over a thousand miles separating us, we have found that our friendship is precious and of incredible value.

I hope you have a friend in your life that you can share with. Someone who you can share your darkest moments and not feel like you will be discarded. We have those moments, all of us, and it is really nice to know that there is someone who will still love you, offer support, or just not reject you. They may shake their heads, give you the evil eye, or smack you, but you know that they still love you. There is a hug just around the corner.

It doesn't hurt if your friend is your favorite fishing buddy either.

Blessings on you friends! Blessings.