Friends

If you know me, then you know I am a big fan of Henri Nouwen. His books are worth reading and reading again. His insight into life is remarkable, helpful, and practical.

He often talks of simple things, like friendship. In friendships we often discuss details of what is happening in our lives. That’s normal and good. Nouwen adds,

"But often we want to hear something else. We want to hear, ‘I've been thinking of you today,’ or ‘I missed you,’ or ‘I wish you were here,’ or ‘I really love you.’ It is not always easy to say these words, but such words can deepen our bonds with one another. Telling someone ‘I love you’ in whatever way is always delivering good news. Nobody will respond by saying, ‘Well, I knew that already, you don't have to say it again’! Words of love and affirmation are like bread. We need them each day, over and over. They keep us alive inside."
 
Thanks, Henri. Again.