Tattered and Torn

Living in the Midwest we experience all four seasons. As we say good-bye to warm summer nights, we say hello to crisp fall days, and just like clockwork, cozy sweaters and socks make their appearance.

Every year, I pull out my favorite cold weather things, and always stumble across the same familiar t-shirt. I have treasured this shirt for twenty, possibly twenty five years. It is well worn, with frayed edges, even has a hole or two, but still takes up residence and space, in my closet, and my heart.

I make a vow to throw it out at the end of each season, but somehow can’t pursuade myself to go through with it. I’ll throw it on at the end of a long work day, or just casually hanging out at home….many times it has been worn to bed. Why is it so hard to let it go?

I am guessing because it holds special memories of days gone by, and spending time with my best friend. We had purchased the matching black and white t-shirts when we spent the weekend in the city. I don’t recall exactly what we did during that trip, but I remember the laughs and fun we shared.

Special memories connect us to a person, place, event, and even a feeling. To this day, I don’t wear the t-shirt without thinking of that weekend or the special bond we share. I am blessed that we are still best friends; it is her beautiful smile, contagious laugh, sweet personality, and generous heart I am grateful for, and can’t imagine my life without our friendship. Even though year after year I save the treasured shirt all tattered and torn, my gratitude for our friendship is just like brand new.

xoxox…..Sheryl