Who Shaped You?

One of my goals for 2018 was to reconnect with "Old friends/Always friends" that have impacted my life and, if you will, shaped me.

 At this stage in the journey, it's rather sobering to realize how long said friends have been in your life.  My grade school and high school girlfriends, for example--over 50 years.  College friends, bumping up on that mark.  And the friends made during adulthood, well over 25 years.

 Recently, with the able bodied assistance of friends Kathy and Marlene, we got the old Childbirth Education Association of Greater Minneapolis St. Paul (CEA), a now defunct organization, band back together.  There were a group of us that shared sisterhood which surpassed making a difference for childbearing women and families.  I will not be shy about that.  We made an impact and once we completed our work in CEA, went on to continue to make an impact in a number of arenas.  Impressive women, all.  

 One of the 'band' was unable to attend our meeting.  Bonnie asked me to tell the group that she would not be the person she is today had it not been for their friendship and influence in her life.  I did and we all agreed she spoke the truth.

 Now I know how those women, and so many of the Old Friends/Always Friends shaped me for the better.  For the best.  For, as another childbirth friend reminds us for the highest and the best.

 You have those people in your lives.

 And if you're the beneficiary of having friends for fifty some odd years, you also probably remember this '80's commercial.

 Spend a little time considering who shaped you.  Family?  Friends?  Some of both?  Now would be a good time to reach out and let them know of their value.  And while you're at it, encourage them to vote in the midterms.

 Thought you might like to see part of the 'band.'  Oh, and I thought this was interesting.  We're going to expand the band as others who were part of the organization are interested in meeting up.  Ah, the lovely power of reconnecting.  This has been one of my best goals ever.

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