The chances of finding a four-leaf clover on your first try are about 1 in 10,000. Scientific American estimates there are roughly 200 clovers per 10 square inches in a clover patch. Therefore, there is typically at least one four-leaf clover in a 13-square-foot plot of clovers.
The rare occurrence of finding a four-leaf clover is also a metaphor for finding a best friend. Of course, friends come, and friends go, but a special friend who loves like a brother can fall into the scarce category. This was one of those friends.
In many cases, you choose your friends, not like your family, and in many ways, the ones we intentionally bring into our lives can mean just as much, if not more. True friends help us live more meaningful, joy-filled lives. The value of a true friend should never be underestimated.
True friends support us through thick and thin. My dear friend supported me and loved me for the person I am, flaws and all. Although we were only together for thirteen years, it seemed like a lifetime. No matter what stupid thing I said or did, my friend accepted me unconditionally and even found beauty in my quirks and imperfections.
We had ups and downs, but he was always there for me during hard times. He was someone with whom I could laugh, play, and have fun. He would also listen and allow me to vent and cry when needed. And he always knew how to cheer me up. That’s a true friend.
Sometimes, life gets in the way, and our busy schedules make it challenging to spend as much time with our friends as we would like. A best friend will treat you as a priority and set aside quality time to catch up. True friends will always be there to support you, never turning on you when the wind changes direction.
If you choose your friends correctly, you will always surround yourself with those who share your values and can be relied upon to help guide you through life. Sometimes, we may not notice ourselves stumbling and falling off track, but a true friend will always be there waiting to help pick us up and get back on the straight and narrow.
Friendships like these cannot be forced. These unique connections happen. A long-lasting friendship involves an effortless connection in which the two friends understand each other simply by being themselves. You must be a good friend in return and show how much you love and care. When you reciprocate, you will be loved and respected more than ever.
My friend’s passing did not come as a surprise. He had been sick for a while, starting to show signs about a year ago. It got to the point where I knew he wouldn’t see another Christmas. I wouldn’t say he suffered, but it was evident he couldn’t do the things he used to. Despite his apparent frailties, he always showed signs of youth and vitality when he saw me. His activity level would climb a notch or two when we were together.
Some special memories I cling to are sharing scrambled eggs in the morning or whipped cream and pocky sticks at coffee time. I loved to secretly share my dinner with him despite Momma’s opposition. There were also quality mornings at the beach to take in a beautiful sunrise and the one botched attempt at watching the sunset. Losing my cell phone was not part of the plan, and it ruined the evening. Oh, but we can laugh about it now.
I believe in eternal life, and I’m sure he did, too. Therefore, I am convinced we will share a thousand special moments on the other side of this existence. Whether we ascend to Glory or cross a bridge, we will meet on the other side.
I look forward to that day.
So, here’s to you, Ray. Thank you for the memories. We saw each other through good times and some not-so-good. Every memory will bring joy to my soul and a smile to my face. You were the epitome of a true best friend, and dammit, I will miss you terribly.
Ray Lewis Jr.
July 1, 2011 - September 6, 2024
Comentários