NEW FRIENDS

I am dedicating this post today to my neighbours Sharon and Bernice.

This week, outside on my apartment building's "front porch," one of my favourite bible study neighbours introduced me to a new friend. Our paths had crossed (this new friend and I) on the street and in the elevator, but we had never struck up a conversation. Now I'm learning this person is deaf. Honestly, I had wondered if maybe she didn't like me? I told her this! I learned I was wrong! We've been wearing masks during Covid so she couldn't read my lips.
 
Next. I am excited to know some ASL signs I can share. But in my excitement, I forget every one of the few signs I'd taught myself during the depths of Covid-lockdown. The only sign I remember is the one for God-- a good sign to remember if you're only going to remember one.

Continuing. This unexpected introduction and connection touched me deeply. It filled me with joy. I had been losing my joy this week. Thanks be to God for God working through my neighbours to restore it. I hope God worked through me to fill them with what they needed too.

Later, I spot my new friend again. She waves to me as she's standing at the traffic lights with her dog, Max, waiting to cross the street (to go to Tim Horton's I think?). I wave back.
 
Our relationship has changed. I am so happy.

Maybe this is an example of how our masks really do have to come off for friendship to have a chance?

Cb
Amen

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