I used to keep a word document called "Counting My Blessings" in college and I sometimes open the document to see what I wrote back then. Some of those entries really bring a smile to my face as I think about how God has been with me in the smallest things in life (like, not missing the bus one day). I also smile at how simple my heart was then and how I should take some pointers from my younger self. So hopefully this can also serve the same purpose.
I also really like the following words (found on her Pinterest :D) and I thought it's so fitting for this!
I can't mention good friends without also mentioning my dear friends, Ruth and Ping. David and I got married almost 2 years ago now(!) and when I think back to that day, I remember how blessed I am to have them as friends.
First of all, they flew in on the Wednesday before the wedding, telling me that they're here early to help with the wedding. They offered this completely unsolicited from me! Friday before the wedding, they woke up insanely early with me to go to the SF Flower Mart to get all the wedding flowers; then helped me arrange them at the University Club, where we had our reception. They did everything I asked them without making me feel demanding at all.
The day before the wedding, I was feeling bitter and emotional and overwhelmed because I felt like I had to shoulder everything and I didn't have anyone to release this Bridal PMS. My wedding party was staying in the same suite as me but I was just not getting the comfort/help I needed from them. I even felt like they really could care less about how I was doing (yes, Bridal PMS). So I called Ruth and Ping and asked if they minded staying with me that night and thankfully they didn't mind at all.
The next morning, they made me feel like a bride! They told me that I looked really pretty and said something like, "We're lucky to have seen the bride first!" I know they're really indulging me by saying so, but it really made me feel a LOT better. I fed on those positive words and they really carried a lot of weight for me on our big day. So I'm so thankful to them for being there for me on one of the most important days of my life.
When I was younger, I was obsessed with making sure people liked me. It bothered me if someone didn't. I felt like I have to win them over. Maybe it's from low self-esteem or insecurity. But as I got older, I appreciate and value my old and true friendships more and more. They really teach me how to be a better friend myself and I'm still always learning.
So even though I only have a few special friends in my life so far, I feel very blessed and joyful that they're in it. And I thank God for blessing me with their friendship.