Soothing to the Soul

I’ve mentioned my amazing tribe of friends/sisters a few times. But I haven’t really shared what makes them amazing. I mean, besides the whole loving, encouraging, and accepting of each other for where we are and the choices we make.

Are you familiar with the Arianna Grande song about her exes where she’s sharing what they taught her? I want to share a little bit about what one of my dearest friends has taught me in a relatively short period of time.

She is one of the most loving, nurturing, kind, and patient people I’ve met. Her mere presence is calming for my soul. In many situations, she’s able to play the unbiased peacekeeper. She approaches things in a logical manner, but with a full range of emotions at the same time.

This woman has definitely been through her fair share of heartache and tragedies. She’s still facing some difficult things. However, her smile and kind heart remain present in everything she does, even when she’s upset or stressed out. And she’s ALWAYS there for those she loves.

My friend can see all sides to a situation, even when she’s in the thick of it. Somehow, she still manages to de-escalate and remain neutral and level-headed. She’s a boss, not only in her occupation, but in the way that she does life.

I’m pretty sure her partner and kids would agree that she’s definitely a special person. She’s the kind of person that everyone needs in their life. My friend circle is certainly grateful for her presence in our lives.

Even though she’s calm and accommodating, she still stands her ground. She’s actually getting married in a couple of months. It was going to be a relatively small ceremony with her, her partner, and their children. A couple of us were planning on wearing coordinating outfits to be cute and funny, but one of the girls mentioned it in our group chat one night (not knowing about the plan).

We basically bullied our way into being bridesmaids. She loved the idea, even though we kind of made it happen. Through the conversation, she let us know that she really thought about it and wanted it, but she was afraid to jinx our friendships because she doesn’t talk to any of her bridesmaids from her first wedding.

That made me sad for her, and for those other women. They’re missing out on such a special friend. However, I do believe that people come into our lives when we need them, either their energy and love to get us through, or the lessons they teach us, or perhaps they need us. I’m just grateful this universe saw fit to let our lives intersect in the way they have.

I told her she’s stuck with me. I’ve never had a friend embody all that she does. That’s true of our entire friend group, though. These women are truly astonishing.

Stevi is loving, kind, nurturing, smart, funny, and has a way of explaining the hard things in a gentle manner that makes it easier to listen to even when it’s hard to hear. She doesn’t force her views on anyone, yet she’s honest about them. She can also help explain what someone is saying to someone else who isn’t receiving it well.

She no longer lives in the same city, but thanks to technology and a few other things we are able to keep in touch daily and share the funny stuff, the hardships, the laughter, the love, and everything in between.

It also gives us another place to travel to. Stevi, I’m beyond grateful for you. I love you. I treasure the memories we’ve made together more than you know, and I’m looking forward to so many more! 

Stevi has taught me to look at things another way. To be patient. And not to lose my kindness, no matter how rough things can be at times. Her communication style and intelligence is something I aspire to achieve.  She reminds me that a woman can be powerful and soft, all at the same time.

I’m beyond grateful for your friendship and love. (Thank you Britt for bringing her into my life!)