Great Friendships

I am very blessed to have great friends.  I've known most of these women for over 15 years, and others for not so long.  They all are significant to my journey.  They've been a great support to me in:

• sharing
• love
• fun
• mirroring back to me with loving honesty
• times of deep pain and turmoil

One in particular stands out for me.  I met Margaret at work when I lived there 5 years ago.  We've remained friends and connect by phone every once in a while.  When we do, it's like no time has passed.  When I need honest feedback to some big decision or change I'm considering in my life, I call Margaret in NY. 
Margaret's insight is so helpful because it feels she's sharing from a higher place and not from her own particular belief system.  So, I feel when she hears me out and then speaks, she is respecting my essence. 
All of my friends are wise women;  they want what's best for me. Yet, most people are biased by culture or what's "right" socially and they'll offer you advice from their own beliefs. 
Myself, as a life coach and as a friend, have always been very careful also to listen with my heart when a friend in need comes to me.  I understand there is no "right" way of going about life.  I do my best to respect my friend's desire and outlook.  I mentally climb a high place and look down to see with a broader perspective.  See, even though many will ask for our opinion and a way to avoid making their own decision, ultimately, the greatest gift of friendship is respect and empowerment.