The Party Where Time Went Backward

"Yes'm, old friends is always best, 'less you can catch a new one that's fit to make an old one out of. "
 - Sarah Orne Jewett

Me in the group picture

Last night was so much fun. Some old friends who had moved away were in town visiting. They put out the call on Facebook for us all to get together for dinner. I agreed right away because I never turn down a party. But I wondered if it would be awkward. 

They moved away seven years ago. A lot changes in seven years. Babies are born, children go away to college, people lose touch with each other. Would it be weird, all of us being together again? What would we talk about? 

I won't deny that there was some weirdness. It was like someone froze time, opened the curtain to the past, and grabbed a few pieces of it. Then those pieces were all dropped into our laps to enjoy all over again. There was a very "twilight zone" feeling to all of us being together again. I wanted to bottle it to bring the feeling home. I felt like if I could just walk around the room and touch everyone, maybe I could freeze the moment to keep with me. Does that make any sense?

When my friends lived here, we were all so close. We formed bonds that could only be created under the very specific circumstances we found ourselves in at that time. 

And last night, we all picked up right where we left off. It was such a good time! We were laughing and joking with each other like seven years had never passed. The changes we have all experienced didn't affect our friendship in the least! What a gift! 

I wish my friends lived closer. I wish we could see each other more often. But knowing that time and distance can't really change the bonds we all made years ago, is a very comforting thought. 

Being reminded of precious past relationships makes me want to do a better job with the friendships I have now. I want to make sure that I am allowing the time and energy necessary for those bonds to grow strong and deep. It's difficult in this busy life I'm living, but, as last night showed, totally worth it.

The other really great thing about seeing old friends - they kept telling me how great I looked! I was called gorgeous more times last night than in a normal year! I really need to see these people more often. 

Me at the party - not posting a pic from 7 years ago

But it makes me wonder - how ugly was I seven years ago?