whispered to a rock (another word for you)

that patience
could be etched in me
the way i see it
etched in thee

*Patience is the companion of widsom.   ~St. Augustine

**Yesterday I went to KU Med Center to visit my friend Linda who received a new kidney last week. I was accompanied by two amazingly delightful friends: Terri, who brings color to the world, and Aleda who brings the wonderful gift of storytelling and humor. It was a wonderful outing. The hour and a half drive was filled with interesting conversation ranging from spring color, diet fads, fashion, and books, to the Lybian conflict. How refreshing it is to share this life, in all it’s pain and glory, with others.


Upon arrival we found our way to the local dining district and some delicious sandwiches. At least I can personally vouch for the Eggplant Parmesan. :)

We walked back to the car through the brisk March wind which chilled us to the bone and, as cold weather does, made us very aware of being alive! When we got to Linda’s room we found her sitting up in a chair waiting for our visit. She fairly glowed! As we sat in the warmth of afternoon sunshine coming through her window and listened as she shared her experience, I was reminded of the days, weeks, months, and years that she has lived with a failing kidney.

I must say that she has been the ultimate example of patience. Watching her go through this process with strength, dignity, humor and faith has been a privilege and an inspiration. Go Linda!

I came away from the day with two thoughts I mind:
The first (about patience) is expressed in the poem above….
The second (about friendship) could be summarized by the following quote:

"In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit." --Albert Schweitzer

I was rekindled yesterday. …thanks to the friendship of 3 amazing women.

Oh, spend time with your friends……and if you are going through a “friend drought”…don’t lose hope. There are new ones out there, waiting to be discovered.