Friends rock...

Over the last couple of days, I have gotten in touch with several friends from high school. I hadn't heard from some of them for over 20 years. Wow, the memories that come flooding back. Some great ones and some that... we'll just leave some in the past. It's probably better for everyone if we leave some of that stuff marked off as "we were crazy kids" and just leave it at that. It is going to be alot of fun to get to know everyone again.
I also got to have a great conversation with my buddy keith who will be coming home from Iraq very soon. Man, do I love that guy. He shared with me anote that my youngest daughter gave him before he left. In her most heartfelt and tactful way, she wrote, "just don't die." He knows the implications that were in that statement. We love him like family and can't wait for him to get home. Along with the rest of the families and friends with someone serving around the world, we say "Just don't die. And we are praying for you guys as you serve around the world."
Finally, I got an incredibly uplifting email from a good friend this morning. What an encouragement!
I guess what I am trying to say with all of this is: we need to recognize the role we play in each other's lives. Friends matter! We need to be sure to take time to love the people that God puts in our lives. (and to be loved by them as well) If someone comes to your mind today, don't just let the thought go. Give them a call or go see them. You never know the impact it could have. You know it would mean the world to you. (whether you'll admit it or not)