Having just returned from Germany back to California, I find myself reflecting on one particular lesson learned on this trip. Several times, Aaron and I spoke at length about the remarkable family of friends that Matthias and Melli have been able to surround themselves with. It was so clear, from both the wedding and every other social occasion that we attended, that their friends are as thoughtful, generous, and loving as anyone could hope for. Repeatedly, Aaron and I were amazed and humbled by the lengths to which the Roses' friends go in order to express their affection for the newlyweds. They've set a higher standard that I now aspire to attain.
That being said, it was absolutely fitting that I should depart the company of such incredible friends (Matthias, Melli, and Aaron specifically) and be greeted by John-Paul and Andrea Tyler upon return to California. I met the couple while attending university in Northern California, and since that time our relationships have developed into something beyond simple friendship. They've shown me such unwavering love and support that I struggle to come up with a description of our relationship which is both adequate and accurate.
There are times in my life when I question the nature of friendship. In particular, I wonder if perhaps friendship is only possible when there is something tangible to be gained from such an intimate relationship with other people, beyond simple enjoyment of each other's company. If that were the case though, I could consider several of my friendships in which I can honestly say that I have no idea why they keep me around. Maybe it's a lack of self-confidence, or simply an inability to understand what they "gain" in the equation, but I sometimes look at my few-but-great close friendships and think to myself, "How did this happen? Why are they still talking to me?". After hearing their repeated efforts to explain their motivation to me, and which I still fail to appreciate, I've resigned myself to the much simpler approach of thanking my lucky stars. I've got it good. Not only do I have a family whose support and encouragement of me (despite the plethora and myriad of stupid decisions I've made in my life) borders on the insane, but I'm surrounded by a handful of friends who have no obvious (to me, anyways) explanations for treating me the way they do, but do so regardless.
It is with them in my life that I am able to achieve any and all of my personal successes, and I will forever feel indebted to them all.
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