I have just recently celebrated a significant birthday on Black Friday. Yes, Friday the 13th of June. As I write this, I am actually pondering the history of Black Friday. That is, why is a Friday and the number 13 considered black and linked to bad luck and superstition? I don’t actually know the answer to that question but have to say I don’t consider the number 13 unlucky nor do I find the combination of Friday and 13 anything but a day and a date.
The renovations are complete and the house is magnificent. I used the black Friday idea to host a party to re-connect with family and friends. I had been a bit disconnected through being distracted with the build, distracted by a knowing that life is changing and I felt my birthday was a good time to get everyone together and celebrate – maybe a last hurrah? I had the party catered, plenty of fine wine and a handful of talented musicians to cap the night off. Whilst the party was fantastic, some have said a “wonderfully sophisticated evening” for me, it was all about the people.
Family and friendships are important, and the night demonstrated this beautifully. I remember a saying from somewhere – not sure where – that goes something like: some friendships are for a season and some for a reason ….
I realise this is a bit vague but I guess it captures what I am trying to say. Friendships that last, that span decades are truly special and I don’t know that I really understood that until just now. Perhaps understood is not the right word, perhaps appreciate is a better fit. Yes, I don’t think I have ever really thought about friendships, because usually they just are, but today I can say I have a depth of understanding around friendships and now truly appreciate just how special they are.
Special however, only when the friendship is true, when the friendship is authentic.
This is what I felt on Friday the 13th. I felt I was surrounded by true friendship. Some friends I have known for nearly 40 years, since we were little girls at primary school. Some friendships span 20 years and longer and some are quite new, yet I feel the specialness of them and I know these too will blossom and have longevity. I could sense also, that in the coming weeks and months these friendships would be the support I would need and cherish as I embarked on my new journey.
I feel blessed to be alive and thankful to have experienced such a wonderful night that was much, much more than just a birthday on black Friday the 13th.
