Listening is a magnetic and strange thing, a creative force. The friends who listen to us are the ones we move toward. When we are listened to, it creates us, make us unfold and expand.
Shel Silverstein
Attending a spiritual gathering, I found myself racing through the parking lot. On my way, I noticed a license plate that I was certain I had seen in my neighborhood. I walk most every day, taking in the birds, flower beds, trees, homes and license plates on cars.
Upon entering the building, I started asking several of my friends about who owned the car with this particular license plate. As soon as the woman was pointed out to me, I knew we had never met.
After the gathering, I approached this woman and introduced myself. Our brief exchange was enough to determine that we had an instant connection. We ended up car pooling a few times, then coffee, and then lunch meetings. We discovered we had numerous friends in common and quickly became friends.
A few years have passed now and this woman easily has become a 'sister of my heart'. Although she would sometimes say I am the teacher, she needs to remember that the teacher frequently becomes the student. I have learned about her compassion, resilience, and desire to extend loving kindness to others. She does not really realize how she is frequently pulled into situations where she becomes an angel in disguise. She is more than willing to allow Spirit to use her in helping others above and beyond the expected.
Life continues to challenge her, but optimistic she remains. She is mindful to replenish her spirit so she can continue to generously give to unsuspecting souls. Opportunities present themselves to her regularly allowing others to share their story as she is a wonderful listener. She offers compassion without any trace of judgment or expectation in return.
Her friendship has been a gift to me and I treasure her presence in my life. Our special relationship continues to expand and unfold as we lovingly open our hearts and souls.
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