Friends Lost and Found

Friends. Like a lot of people, my friends range from little kids to older folks. Certain friends I can totally relax with, while other friends I sometimes have to be careful of what I say or what I do. My friends enrich my life in so many ways, and I can only hope that I have touched their lives as well.

Lil, is a special friend of mine. Born with Down’s Syndrome, Lil hasn’t always had it easy in life. She’s aware of people who are friendly toward her and who steer clear of her. I love being around Lil! Lil’s usual greeting is, “Behave Barb! You’re my best friend.” Now keep in mind, she tells lots of people to behave and several people that they are her best friend. But if I’m having a lousy day, I love hearing Lil tell me I’m her best friend!

Lil thinks I’m funny. I’ll tell a joke and she’ll laugh. I’ll make a funny face and she’ll giggle. She never puts me down or gets mad at me. Lil is a very caring person. If she sees that her mother is getting tired, she’ll ask her to sit down. If someone’s glass is empty, she’ll fill it with water.

Lil loves to work on word search puzzles, draw pictures, watch DVDs and listen to music. When a fast song plays, Lil gets up and dance. She sort of enters her own world and loves to move around freely. She’s a constant reminder to me to not take life so seriously and to take time to have fun, to be silly.

Do you have a Lil in your life? Is there a friend who is very different from you who brings out the good in you? I encourage you this year to make a friend with someone who has special needs. You’ll be a better person for it.

Listen to your heart…