Don’t be a stranger
Hiya Lovely, it's me. She says waving :0)x
Silly as this may seem I'm a little nervous ... it's been a while.
I guess the insecure bit of me is harking back to the friend who would go quiet for weeks or even months. Eventually I'd call her up and the first thing she'd say was "Oh I thought you must've died".
Time after time, even though I knew it was coming, I experienced a sinking, shrinking feeling like I'd done something dreadful and I'd half laugh to hide the sting of those hurtful words. Eventually though I came to realise that if we were true friends time and distance would be of no consequence and recriminations whether deemed as banter or not wouldn't be necessary.
It took a while for the penny to drop (I used to be the world's best at taking responsibility for making others feel good), I quit making the effort and you know what happened? ... Yep, you got it ... Zilch! We drifted apart. All we do now to keep in touch is the occasional card at high days and holidays. Okay, I know, hands up, there's still a part of me that doesn't want to give up. Thank goodness though I wised up to the fact that friends who actually care about one another don't require convoluted explanations, they're simply pleased to reconnect and pick up where they left off or even take things to another level.
Time to 'ramp up the anti'
I'm reflecting on everything that has happened in the past 284 days since 'this' all began. The highs, the lows and everything in between. It has brought us, our connection and friendships into focus. So many questions pop up around what has happened since I wasn't here, especially if anyone even really noticed?
I have lots to share about the blessings of wonderful friends but that's for another day. For now I'd like to ask you a question ...
My energy is returning .. not quite soaring yet but I'm well on the way and what I'd really love is to change things up a little. I would dearly love to start a conversation or two or three, create some interaction, draw out your opinions. I'm happy to be a catalyst, a source of inspiration and for my part I'd be thrilled if you'd be willing to join in sometimes. I'm also rolling the idea around about creating a Private Group on Facebook, a totally safe space for all concerned.
What do you think? Does that tickle your fancy? Is that a goer?
Please. Don't be a stranger. Have your say.
Yes/ No/ I have my reservations ... Whatever your feelings start the ball rolling. Leave a thought in the comment box below - You never know where it might lead x
Mwahh xSallyC
I agree that true friends bypass time and space.
Some move on, some are the same as ever when you meet them.
Some pass and take a different road.
But all have something of value to give us when we meet.
I think a private group on facebook sounds good.
I don’t often write on facebook, but I might.
I think you are a truly generous person.
You are open and allow us into your vulnerable areas.
That generosity is rare.
I enjoy reading your news letters.
If this is the only time I write to you, I want you to know your own value.
You have given me part of yourself.
I appreciate that.
Take care of yourself, keep writing,
All the best,
Jessamy
I really appreciate your kind words and thoughts Jessamy.
I’d love to create a sacred space where women can safely share thoughts ideas and feelings in a way that may inspires all concerned.
Lets see what happens.
With much gratitude x Sally
It has always been a joy to read your blogs, and they have been a source of inspiration. I’m so pleased to know your zing is returning. I would love the idea of Facebook, safe places are what we all need. Already my day is turning from one of struggle (I am recovering from sickness) to one of feeling incredible gratitude for the myriad of blessings which we can all share in. My plan for today is to notice and savour the goodness which surrounds me. Many blessings, Mandy
Thank you so much Mandy, you sound like a woman after my own heart.
I’m sending loving healing thoughts your way for a speedy recovery. Am loving your attitude of gratitude – daily appreciations have paid a huge part in my own healing journey too. Isnt it amazing how just by listing our daily blessings our days can be transformed from ordinary to magnificent?
I have a feeling this group gonna happen, yay!
XSallyC
I am a different person after going through cancer treatment and seem to find it easier to make new friends than stay in contact with the old. Only a few very loyal friends. I enjoy my three dogs more than I can say and friends at dog club have been very supportive. I am a bit wary of Facebook but if a closed group it would probably be ok.
Hey good morning Jennifer. Seems to me it’s those tough times in our lives that highlight our true friendships and support and somehow make it easier to connect with new peeps too. It’s certainly been true for me.
Wishing you a beautiful day x
Sounds like a good plan, Sally 🙂 I have missed reading your wise words and am pleased you’re back. Go for it! xx
Thanks Wendy. Looks like Im gonna have a new focus then x
Happy Friday to you x
Thank you for your lovely message Kathryn Pearson x
Yey Sally you’re back 😉
So good to hear you again. I’ve missed your blogs and newsletters, after working with you, it’s nice to stay connected in the virtual world!!
I completely agree with your topic of blog – true friendship does make you feel bad or unworthy. I’m lucky to have friends who feel the same as me and I love the time and space they give me with no hard feelings or rude comments.
Love and light xxx and sending you the best uplifting energy I know of xxxx
Well it brightened my day to see your name pop up in my in box this morning. I had been thinking about you a lot this week. So pleased your energy is returning and I love the idea of a Facebook Page because I have only recently found the supportive benefits of talking with other women. I joined a group called Kitchen Dancers ( isn’t that a wonderful name!) who meet locally once a month for a talk, a glass of wine etc. I know that lots of people are wary of Facebook but if it is a members only group then it is fine, I love the conversations you can have with people wherever they are in the world.
What a fabulous name, it made me laugh out loud Linda. Hmm need to give some thought to one for our new community xx
Yes. Facebook a good idea.
I retired early due to ill health. I am on a journey , finding myself.
True friends don t give recriminations, they just pick up, so true, as I do.
Connection with like minded people is vitalising, your words and poignant thoughts often got me through the day many years ago when I had mental angst.
Life is precious, love and care essential. May you continue to re energise and regain your appreciation of all things in life that are good for you.
Lizzie and Lola, how lovely. I love it that you love the private Facebook idea. Better get my thinking cap on :0)xx
You are so right life is precious and nothing trumps a joyous heart xx
Go at your own pace, do what feels right – good even!
I have been reading you since 2012 and am a much stronger and happier person for it. So…..thank you…..time for me to give back, Facebook Group sounds a great idea.
May we all go forward with fortitude and a joyous heart,
Lola
Hey there ….
What a lovely blog Sally ….
And so true …
You always seem to write how most of us feel from time to time …?
We’re all really blessed to have you in our lives …. I surely am !!!!
Big hugs; huge love to you today & always ??
?? xxxx
Thank you so much and ditto beautiful lady xx
Yay, loved your blog I totally agree with what Carla said. True friends you can go long periods of time but always know when you need them they will drop everything to be by your side x
And knowing who your true friends are … how fortunate to have that knowing xx
I’m so pleased for you that you’re on the mend and feeling better. I’ve been reading your wise words for some time now and have taken inspiration from you on my journey back to health. Like others, I don’t do much on Facebook but a closed group offering privacy with like minded souls sounds like a good idea x
Thank you Laura. I’m so happy this feels like a good idea for you x
Hiya Sally Darling lady- yay happy dancing love reading your beautiful words.. Friendships are one of life’s mega gratitudes and joys, so much love- a private group sounds awesome! ??☺️❤️?Iove n hugs ?❤️
Happy holidays Sarah x
Really great to see you “pop up” again Sally … was missing you! Friends … One does not really know how many friends one has until you really need some help! I am going for a total shoulder replacement next month and will not be able to drive for six weeks minimum … and my husband no longer drives due to strokes and vertigo … and our children all live far away! But …. it is truly amazing how many friends, and even some I regarded as acquaintances, have rallied around and offered help. I am truly blessed! Love the idea of an FB “private” page – please count me in! Penny xx
That’s wonderful Penny.
I’m so glad you are experiencing the joys of supportive friends. I know the generosity of spirit of people in my own life has made a whole world of difference. I wish you a full and speedy recovery xx
So happy that your energy is returning Sally. I think about you often and am always inspired by your positivity and words of wisdom.
Friends are people who ‘get you’ and don’t need explanations or apologies. People you can be yourself with and from that learn who your self is.
Friends are people who add to your life, not take away. You have certainly added to my life Sally and I love the idea of connecting with others through a private facebook page.
Trish x
I love your thoughts about “People who “get you” and don’t need explanations or apologies adding to your life Trish x
Sally, I’ve just read the comments and realised mine didn’t work last week! I just wanted to say how amazing it is to have good friends and I have appreciated and tried to cultivate them much more over the past few years. It is wonderful to have you back – I always find your blogs/newsletters say the right thing at the right time for me. I enjoyed the private fb page before, even though I often found it difficult to comment, I took a lot from everyone else’s comments and experiences. As always, thank you for everything! Txx
Hi Tracey, so glad you’re still finding the writing worthwhile. You will be warmly welcomed into the new group once it’s up and running xx