Friendship Tribes

I was texting with a friend the other day and we found ourselves on the topic of friendship. We talked about how we have gotten busier now that our children are older and our focus is on different things like our careers and keeping up with everyone's schedules. Luckily, our friendship is still the same in our eyes, despite the distractions.

This conversation got me thinking about friendships. It is something I have blogged about time and time again but have never shared any of my writings publically. I'm not sure why except that I don't want to leave the impression that I am writing passive-aggressively about my friendships. 'Cuz mama don't play like that.

The older I get, the more I realize that I am a loyalist when it comes to friendship. I don't like to play games. You're either my friend or you're not. I've also realized that my friendships consist of many different tribes of people. And that is ok. I need my tribes. All of them.

I am incredibly thankful for these tribes. I couldn't (and wouldn't want to) do life without you!

My Everyday Tribe

I see these friends often. I see them at school and church. We are in soccer, dance, bible study, and school activities together. They are the ones who help me get all my crazies where they need to be when I need to be in 2 places at the same time. They are the ones who babysit last minute. Or invite my kids over for the afternoon after church. They come to soccer games to cheer on Chazzy and take pictures of Channing at Girl Scouts when I can't be there. We pass hand-me-downs around to each other, pick each other's kids up from school, and borrow paint samples from one another. We are there for each other in the everyday things and the big things too.

My Everything Tribe

These friends know the most about me. The good, the bad, and the crazy. And they still love me. They are everything to me. They are the ones who keep me accountable to be a better Christian, wife, mom, and friend. They are the ones who stand beside me and walk with me in all aspects of my life. They consistently cheer me on and encourage me. They are genuinely excited for me when wonderful things happen. And weep along side me when tragedy strikes. I don't see some people in my Everything Tribe often enough, but it doesn't matter because our friendship is still the same.

My Hometown Tribe

I grew up in a small town several hours away from where I live now. I have no family left in my hometown so the only time I visit is for reunions. But there is just something about my hometown people. They are so special to me because even though we may go years without seeing or talking to each other, we always pick up right where we left off. My Hometown Tribe helped mold me into the person I am today and we experienced some of life's biggest joys and sorrows together. They will always be my people.

My Family Tribe

I've heard that you can't be friends with your family. I respectfully disagree. I am lucky because I have a wonderful Family Tribe. Sure, there are times we annoy one another. Or feelings are hurt. Or we do things differently. But my Family Tribe has my back and I have theirs. And I wish they lived right down the road from me because I miss them terribly in the everyday things of life. It does make our time together sweeter, and I always look forward to visits with my Family Tribe.


Tribes,
From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you for your friendship, trust, encouragement, accountability, loyalty, and, at times, forgiveness. I rely on each and every one of you, and your friendships bless me. Special thanks to those who are in more than 1 tribe (that just means you're never getting rid of me!).

Love,
Me