When the sun shines we'll shine together.

There are so many different ways to be connected to people. There are the people you feel this unspoken connection to, even though there's not even a word for it. There are the people who you've known forever who know you in this way that other people can't because they've seen you change. They've let you change.
- from My So-Called Life

This weekend I hosted a ladies' soup night for my community group at my new church. Several of my good friends were there, plus other nice girls whom I don't know as well (yet). It was just a few hours of sitting around eating and talking, but it made me feel so blessed. I used to be intimidated by the thought of having more than one or two people over, but I'm finding that I love it now when my house is full of people and laughter. I'm less worried about whether everything is perfect. I'm loving getting to know people at my new church. I feel like I'm finding real community, and I'm so thankful.

But most of all, the night reminded me how thankful I am for my friends. These women have laughed and cried with me, reassured me, inspired me, defended me, reminded me of what's true, and encouraged me in pretty much every way. They're helping me to thrive, and I'm a better person because of them. It means more to me than I can ever say.

I don't plan to indulge in virtual group hugs on a regular basis, but this is what's inspiring me today. Plus, the fact is, I'm a mushy and cheesy person. Most Hallmark cards (and even some commercials) make me cry. So my readers might as well know what they're dealing with. :)