Hebrews 10:25 – We should not stop gathering together with other believers, as some of you are doing. Instead, we must continue to encourage each other even more as we see the day of the Lord coming.

Gratitude Day 784

There is just something special about being with other people who are special. People who hold a little nugget of your heart. Those who you think are pretty great and encourage you to be your best.

This past week, I had several opportunities to be with this kind of people. Ones that I may not see super often but we pick up right where we left off. Each interaction and special and unique.

• The woman I worked with like decades ago and saw again this week through work.  No, we do not see each other very often and yet when we do, my cup gets filled.
• A college friend who received some difficult news this week.
• Hubby Rick and I visited with a person who just went on Hospice this week. We treasure these kinds of moments.
• A hospital visit with a couple who I have known for decades. Yes, that’s right. Decades. (Wow. I am old.)
• A phone conversation with a woman whose is going through a life transition, even though I was hours late with the call.
• A serious of text messages with a woman who checks in regularly with me.
• An email offer from a woman who is becoming a dear friend.
• A visit after church with one of those people who is just a special person.
• A message from the person who has been my friend the longest and who recently made a very challenging decision.
• Running into a former 4-H friend last weekend unexpectedly.
• Getting messages from a grandchild, which always puts a smile on my face.
• Our nurse/friend checking on Rick after he had a little procedure this week.
• A late-night phone call from a confidant.
• Reconnecting with a family last night that I have not seen in years.
• And on, and on, and on.

I hope you get the drift. People. They are important. Necessary. How we grow, find support, and offer encouragement. It’s discovering there are times to talk and times to listen. Opportunities to accept ideas and suggestions as well as help trouble-shoot when appropriate.  Yes, relationships can be challenging, disappointing and taxing. But they can also be a great source of comfort, empathy and honesty.

Nearly every morning, I write out three things that I am grateful for that happened in the last 24 hours. About 90% of what I write down is associated with recent contact I’ve had with someone. These are the moments that I relish the most. Bring joy to my heart. Fill my cup to overflowing.

I am not taking for granted the opportunity to be in-person with friends anymore. A pandemic should have cured us of this. This is why an in-person opportunity is even more special. Treat it like it is special … because it is.

Every once in a while, someone will mention to me that people do not contact them regularly. They are lonely. Wished they had more friends. Well, my friend, YOU can do something about this. Reach out to someone else. Be a friend to someone in need. Drop off a meal. Send a quick text. Have coffee. And if the person is busy, keep trying.

Sometimes, I realize that I have mentioned getting in touch with someone and then realize I haven’t. I get frustrated with myself for suggesting something and then not following through with it. Yes, even I, need a little push once in a while.

Think back to the highlights of your past seven days or so. What comes to mind? What made those moments special? Did the situation involve contact with someone else? If so, remember how this made you feel. Then, reach out to someone else so they can experience this great feeling of being in touch with another person.

Reach out to those who are special. Remind them how much they mean to you. Celebrate every interaction. We call today the “present” for a reason. Because it is a gift.

For so many moments of being able to be in touch with someone special in my life, I am very grateful.

Blessings –

Dianne

Holy God – When Jesus started his ministry, he surrounded himself with others that he could depend upon. Be with. May we treasure these moments and reach out to someone who needs a little encouragement this day. Amen.

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