In everyone’s life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.
Albert Schweitzer
Usually on Thursdays, tablescapes and/or food are subject for my post. Today, however, I’m thinking about friends and the people who come into life at just the right moment.
For whatever reason this week, I’ve not felt my usual chipper self. No reason, just a little blue and believe me when I tell you there’s seldom reason for me to feel down. Still, there are days when a smile is hard to come by and the heart feels a little heavy. It’s times such as these when often the unexpected occurs and rekindles my inner spirit.
This morning, for example, the first email I read was from a long time friend whose joyful spirit is itself a gift. Today, for whatever reason, she sent a message filled with kind words of appreciation, the kind that cause tears to flow and which I did nothing to earn. How did she know that on this day her thoughtful kindness would mean so much?
Later, a woman who is a casual acquaintance I’ve not seen for years pulled into my driveway. I happened to be getting out of my car and turned to see who was in the unfamiliar vehicle. What a surprise to see her face! She hadn’t stopped to visit but to snap a photo of the beautiful azaleas blooming along the side yard. She explained the coincidence by saying that God must have brought her to that spot at that moment so that we might reconnect and be reminded of the value of people who pass through our lives.
Is there a greater gift than unsolicited expressions of friendship? Certainly, they lifted my spirit and reminded me that I need often to offer the same. Maybe those expressions will make a difference in someone else’s day.
Today I will start by telling each one of you who take the time to muddle through my musings how very grateful I am. Many of you regularly brighten my day with your posts or your visits here. Thank you.
i so appreciate your visit and the comments you leave behind
Lulu's Musings 
I can so relate to this post, Lulu. It’s been a stressful week here with two close friends seriously ill in the hospital and the death of another. I’m feeling most relieved and thankful that my two friends are now home from the hospital and on the mend. Little things in life make a difference. Thanks for writing this post. ‘-)
What a beautiful post! It is a good reminder to reach out to those I love and adore.
Have a wonderful weekend.
How very nice to see your visit and sweet words.
The weather?
Such a beautiful post, and so true. How wise of you to recognize those moments and those friends and to be grateful for them. I truly believe that old saying, God works in mysterious ways. We just need to remember to be grateful for those moments.
Linda, I appreciated your post today. It is a good reminder to be grateful for the friends and family in our lives. Looking forward to returning to Maine, which always makes me happy. Sending you warm and loving thoughts.
Thank you, Lark. You have a very good heart.
Thank you so much for this post! I have days like the one you described and you are right someone special comes along to put a smile on my face, we are blessed by friends.
Indeed!
I hope everyday brightens with such unexpected joys. Friends seem to know just when the right time is warranted. It is nice they show up when needed. Have a great day today!
Thank you. It is already a great day!
With your big smile, I think you must be a happy person all the time.
Some days are just slightly better than others! (:
What lovely sentiments for the morning reading… Have a wonderful day, Lor
I have a tea towel that a dear friend gave me. It says, “Friends are the chocolate chips in the cookie of life.” They really are, and we do need encouragement from friends. I enjoyed reading how God worked to bring you the lift you needed. 🙂
Kim
I love that saying, Kim, especially as it relates to one of my favorite things.
Friendship is a wondrous gift! We just never know when our spirits will be joyfully renewed or how. It’s always such a treasure to experience kindness whether it’s from a stranger or someone we know and love. As technology and social media becomes more and more a part of our daily lives, it’s important to remember that while friendship comes in all forms, it is best served warm…as in the warmth of TRUE love and care.
Feel better, and know that life is all yours to love! Have a beautiful weekend!
How is it you always have a just right thing to say!
Lulu..I have felt the same way. A little bit of sadness and wondering what subliminal messages are coming through to make me feel that way. People make all the difference in breaking through that gray wall. Even a trip to the grocery store, some friendliness from strangers makes me smile and I come home with a renewed spirit.
I am so glad you had these encounters. Leave yourself open to good things happening!
XO,
Jane
For most of s it’s impossible for every day to be perfect!
You are welcome Lulu!
Sent from my iPhone🌴♻
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I do think that that the scripture God works all things together for those who are called according to His purpose works in many ways. The situations you described fit that.
Linda, You have been a blessing in my life as a blogging friend. I do hope we can meet some day. I will never forget the email I received from you probably four years ago expressing gratitude for faithful readers and a Christmas greeting. Have a great weekend. it’s Thursday night so we can already begin the weekend.
What a sweet spirit you have!
I have felt the same & you are not alone. Let’s have lunch & catch up??
Wishing you many more days filled with smiles and sunshine!
Thank you. Some days are just better than others!
Glad to hear you were encouraged…
Life is full. Of surprises!