Shared by Liz Wessel: "FRIENDSHIP is a mirror to presence and a testament to forgiveness.”

“Friendship not only helps us see ourselves through another’s eyes, but can be sustained over the years only with someone who has repeatedly forgiven us for our trespasses as we must find it in ourselves to forgive.”

“A friend knows our difficulties and shadows and remains in sight, a companion to our vulnerabilities more than our triumphs, when we are under the strange illusion we do not need them.”

“An undercurrent of real friendship is a blessing exactly because its elemental form is rediscovered again and again through understanding and mercy.”

“Friendships of any length are based on a continued, mutual forgiveness. Without tolerance and mercy all friendships die.” -David Whyte

David Whyte’s thoughts on friendship resonate because they give voice to a deeper truth. The circular energy of our relationships, the ebb and flow of love, tenderness and vulnerability helps to dismantle the layer upon layer of a false self; the persona that we have painstakingly cultivated through time.

In this second half of life we have an opportunity to shed our old skin in a regenerative way. Our friends are the cherished beings who see beyond our faults to our true essence, as brilliant as the northern star.

May the light of your soul guide you.
May the light of your soul bless the work
You do with the secret love and warmth of your heart.
May you see in what you do the beauty of your own soul.
May the sacredness of your work bring healing, light and renewal to those
Who work with you and to those who see and receive your work.
May your work never weary you.
May it release within you wellsprings of refreshment, inspiration and excitement.
May you be present in what you do.
May you never become lost in the bland absences.
May the day never burden you.
May dawn find you awake and alert, approaching your new day with dreams,
Possibilities and promises.
May evening find you gracious and fulfilled.
May you go into the night blessed, sheltered and protected.
May your soul calm, console and renew you. -John O'Donohue

Liz Sorensen Wessel

Drawing by ~liz