It Hurts Sometimes

Some days, you just have to accept that things hurt. Growing up doesn't insulate us from tough days - in fact it brings days that are tough in ways that we couldn't imagine when we were kids.

I grew up in small town and had a core group of friends. People drifted in and out of that core group fairly regularly. Once we all became adults, we found a new appreciation for each other. I've been so fortunate to live around the world and make friends that have become family. But none of them know me the same way those friends do.

A few years ago, we lost one of our friends suddenly. It's hard to understand, and hard to see her family go through that. The rest of us pulled together even tighter than we were. We constantly check in on each, celebrate happy things, and offer comfort on tough days.

Today, I've been distracted. Another one of our group is facing a daunting medical situation. We don't know what's going to happen. And it hurts.

It hurts to know there is so little we can tangibly do for her, and it hurts to know that her family is experiencing this.

So tonight, love on your friends, especially the ones who are your family. Enjoy even small moments, because those are the ones that will stick with you later.

My friend is important to me. And today hurts because she is.