Friends, Food, Fellowship and Fun
Fellowship and Fun
Although traditions often dictate when and where families get together, that’s not necessarily so for friends. While it’s true plans are sometimes made ahead, it’s not unusual for friends to call on the spur of the moment and say, “Hey, I’m on my way over.” Or call and say, “Let’s get together for lunch.”
A friend of mine, Mary Nell Coblentz, who now lives in Mississippi, but is originally from North Carolina was traveling home for New Year’s and wanted to get together. Mary Nell and I became friends when I became the organist at Back Creek Presbyterian Church in Mt Ulla over twenty years ago. Her husband, Alex, was the pastor there at the time.
Not having a chance to visit since my husband’s passing a few months ago, Mary Nell thought this would be a perfect opportunity to do something fun. Her idea of going out to eat with a few mutual friends at McAlister’s Deli in Mooresville, NC was a wonderful idea. Not only was the food great, but the company was, too. Everyone had a fun time catching up on children, grandchildren and plans for the future.
Seeing each other first in the parking lot, Mary Nell and I hugged and began talking as if we had seen each other yesterday. One by one as friends arrived, chatter and laughter filled McAlister’s Deli on a beautiful New Year’s Day. In between bites of food, fun and fellowship, I looked at my watch, amazed two hours had passed so quickly. Where had the time gone?
Before leaving that day, of course we had to take group pictures. In the photo above, Mary Nell’s in pink on the front row, while I’m in the back dressed in black. After a round of hugs and a promise to keep in touch on Facebook, we all said our goodbyes.
When I later shared with another friend, Peg Robarchek, that I was writing a blog about friendships, in her way of getting me to dig deeper, she asked, “How do you define friendship?” In thinking about that question, my mind went to a few Bible verses (KJV) which go straight to the heart of the matter. After all, isn’t that what friendship’s all about, anyway?
Greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13
A friend loveth at all times … Proverbs 17:17
A man that hath friends must show himself friendly … Proverbs 18:24
While there may be many layers to a friendship, as you can see from the verses above the bottom line for true friendship is love.
What’s your definition of a friend? How have they made a difference in your life. Leave a comment below, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com.
Thanks,
Dicy
www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog
Great blog, Dicy. Thank you for being such a dear, sweet friend all these years!
Peg
Thank you, Peg.