True friendship is a plant of slow growth, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity, before it is entitled to the appellation. ~George Washington

As I was unpacking my belongings when I moved into my new home this summer, I once again had to decide what to do with the fake rose. This old thing – I’ve been dragging it around from city to city and house to house for more than 16 years. The rose has been packed and unpacked… wow – something like 18 times, I suppose. I don’t tend to stay in one home for long.

Walking around my house with the thing in hand, I tested out placement. My nightstand? Nope – not right. On top of the bookshelf? Awkward. The liquor cabinet? No – the colors clash. The fireplace mantle… That’s it. Perfect. I took an extra moment to soak in the memories of the fake rose and the friend who gave it to me.

The rose originally came with a note that read “I hope this rose lasts as long as our friendship”. The note has since been lost in piles of newspaper wrapping, probably a decade ago. But the friend has not.

Every time I glance over at this gift on the mantle, I remember to be thankful for the greatest treasure in my life – true friendship. I am incredibly fortunate to have friends with whom I can share joy and laughter as easily as tears and sorrow. The ones I can argue with as often as we agree.

These friends are my compass – they are not afraid to tell me when I’m going the wrong direction or that I should really stop trying to tell jokes (a few actually mandated this). They are not jealous, but truly delighted to see me happy. I cherish the memories we’ve made together and am excited about the memories we have yet to make.