Visiting an Old Friend

It was the week before Christmas. Outside, the night air was still and quiet as the winter chill made its presence known. Amid the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping, I took time out to visit an old family friend. It had been months since I last visited and I wondered how she was doing.

We met nearly three decades ago, two years after our family immigrated to America. It was she who provided our family with shelter, warmth and security. Ever-faithful and loyal, she became a significant part of our lives throughout the years. She laid the foundation for our family’s new beginnings, enabling us to realize the American dream. Her unassuming presence was there during times of trial and tribulation, joy and triumph. Our dear friend was there to help celebrate each new milestone from graduations, to weddings, to the birth of each grandchild. Like a true friend, she had an open-door policy. We could stop by unannounced and be greeted with a warm welcome. We knew her routine well. We knew mundane details such as where her linens were stored or what items were stocked in her pantry. Hers was a place of refuge where familiarity breeds comfort. It was a home away from home.

Unfortunately, circumstances beyond our control forced us to part ways. She will always be our dear friend.