My Friends

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity” (Prov 17:17).

“A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Prov 18:24)

David had Jonathan. Jesus had John. I have many. If I were asked what a person with a disability needs most of all, I would simply answer “Friend.” A friend will bear your burden. A friend will love you when you aren’t very lovable. A friend will struggle right beside you. A friend will remind you of a Savior who loves you more than life itself.

In my struggles, I have been helped by friends on countless occasions. Here are some ways friends have loved me:

Listening

Whether or not you suffer from a disability, life can be very, very difficult. I have friends whom I could call at two in the morning and who would lend a listening ear.

Checking In

I have a friend who calls every couple of weeks just to see how I’m doing. I have some who send text messages throughout the week just to make sure everything is okay. I appreciate the gesture and the love which stands behind it.

Financial help

A high deductible insurance policy when you’re having many medical tests can really begin to tax the family budget. Losing two-thirds of the family’s income while you wait on Social Security to kick in paints a worrisome financial picture. I have friends who have offered financial assistance, and I have others who have provided assistance.

Hugs

I have a few friends who hug me every time they see me. With their hugs these friends convey warmth, compassion, and love.

Prayers

Okay, this one might should have been mentioned first – I don’t believe there is a greater power in all the world than prayer. It’s marvelous to have friends who pray for you. It’s wonderful when those friends let you know they remember you in prayer.

These are some of the ways my friends help me. How do your friends help you?