We stood for each other at our weddings, but really we stood
for so much more during those years since we met as five year olds at a
birthday party.
As best friends often do, I fell for you head over heels. We
had joy, we had fun, we had seasons in the sun, as they say. All because I
spilled grape juice on your white party dress, remember party dresses?
We inspired each other, too young to know it at the time. I
owe you my first fall on the ice and the desire for many more ahead. You
learned that a city girl could pee outdoors, carry a “trudie stick” and like
it.
Life is fickle, sometimes cruel, surprising and some kind of
wonderful. As we shared everything, giggling behind school books and later
telephone lines, I never thought that I would find a time when we weren’t there
for each other.
As adults we drifted in and out of our lives. Trying to find
where we fit, if at all, in the chaos that comes with marriage, kids and
careers. We watched our families change
as our parents did and then finally leave us, not knowing how quickly we might
leave ours.
After almost three years, I’m finally ready to allow the
tears roll down my face for you, Ami. Mostly, I am ready to embrace the
memories that could only come from almost 50 years of who you are. I love you
still and thank you for entering my world with your party dress and big heart.
