“In each of my friends there is something that only some other friend can fully bring out. By myself I am not large enough to call the whole man into activity; I want other lights than my own… Friendship exhibits a glorious ‘nearness by resemblance’ to Heaven itself…[that] increases the fruition which each has of God. For every soul, seeing Him in her own way, doubtless communicates that unique vision to all the rest.
“In a perfect Friendship this Appreciative love is, I think, often so great and so firmly based that each member of the circle feels, in his secret heart, humbled before all the rest. Sometimes he wonders what he is doing there among his betters…especially when the whole group is together, each bringing out all that is best, wisest, or funniest in all the others.” (C.S. Lewis, The Four Loves, pp. 61-72)
I have been incredibly blessed with a precious group of amazing girls. These eleven are scattered throughout Virginia, South Carolina, and Texas, and one is about to head to Uganda, yet somehow we just pick up where we left off whenever we get together. Our friendship exemplifies what Lewis describes in The Four Loves – our relationships are grounded in common beliefs and passion, and each of us brings our unique individuality to the friendship in a way that increases the enjoyment we have of life. The person I am today has been profoundly influenced by what these girls have opened my mind and heart to – exactly what Lewis believes true friendship should do. They have brought spontaneity, creativity, joy, and wisdom to my life, giving me new ways to look at the world and at God.
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