My friend told me today her daughter is sick. I've known this girl for most of her life. She is 16 and sweeter than a stereotype. Her sickness is not permanent (it is a cold that turned into pneumonia) but it is persistent. Mallory* would like to see her girl on her feet again. It has been three weeks of congestion, fevers and meds. Mallory did not tell me anything. She said she doesn't want me worrying. I have enough on my plate.
I wish Mallory would have let me know how worried she is for Alexis* instead of going it alone. My life may not be what any of us imagined right now. I accept that. My life having gone through a grinder does not render me incapable of showing up for my friends.
I asked Mallory to let me hold her worries. I want to return the friendship she has offered me. I do not believe I owe it to her. There is no place in friendship for tally sheets.
Each morning I ask: What am I capable of? I am capable of love and empathy.
Today I am grateful to show up at Mallory's door with a momma care package (think chocolate, wine and bath oils). I will ask Alexis if there are any audio books or movies she would like from the library. I will be a friend.
Be excellent to each other,
Dani
*not their real names