In my 50+ years on Earth, I have made hundreds of friends. I’ve lived in four different US states, traveled to another 36 states and ten other countries around the world. I have friends from school, work, church and theater companies, among other organizations, plus those I made at various events over the years. This doesn’t even count the friends I’ve made virtually, thanks to social networks!
Each person along the way has had an impact in my life. I’m who I am today in part because of their impact. And for that, I am so grateful.
Just this week I have spent time with friends I’ve known for anywhere from two years to more than thirty years. The pandemic has given me a renewed appreciation for these friendships. Don’t take them for granted!
Two of my dearest friends are Desireé and Andrea. We met at the inaugural Into the Wool Fiber Retreat in Crossville, Tennessee, back in 2014. Every year we looked forward to getting together from our three different states (Ohio, Tennessee and Florida) and sharing our love of fiber and further fostering our friendship. Sadly, neither of them was able to attend last year’s event; and after the fact, we learned that the 2020 retreat was the last of the series.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to reunite with each of them individually. But it’s not the same as having our trio in one place. We will get together again eventually. But in the meantime we use technology to stay connected when our schedules and circumstances allow.
I’ll close with one last thought on friendship. From my ancient history as a Girl Scout, I still remember the sweet sentiment: “Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold.” Such a brilliant treasure!
Write on.
Kninja Knitter 
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