"A true friend is someone who makes it easier to live the gospel of Jesus Christ."
-Malcolm S. Jeppsen, “Who Is a True Friend?,” Ensign, May 1990, 44
I have come to know that this simple quote is something that rings so true in my life. Yes, I have always known this principle, but this week, it became alive.
I have a friend. She has been a friend of mine for about 3 years now. Our relationship was built off of the Gospel of Jesus Christ- from the moment we met. We have been through ups and downs and I have felt like I was called as an "angel" into her life as well as she was one in my life.
This friend just let me know that she is being ex-communicated from the church and that she no longer believes in God or Prophets. She told me she was happy to be leaving the church. She told me that she was mad at me because she thinks I am her friend only because she is a member of the church.
This statement made my heart break with sadness, anger, and disappointment. I told her that I wasn't just her friend because she was a member. It was more than that. I tried to explain that it is harder to be her friend when the Gospel isn't in common because I don't feel like I can truly be myself. I feel awkward when I share a spiritual experience when it used to be something we would both feast on.
A True friend really is someone that allows us to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ-
but not only allows us to live it, but makes it easier for us.
This is where all you girls come in. I constantly think back on that first dinner at Noodles & Co. and remember that strong spirit I felt as we all shared our testimonies and talked about the Gospel. I learned something new about each of you that night- I learn something new about each of you as I read your posts. I need you girls. I need your friendship because it is when we grow closer together, we grow closer to our Savior.
Thank you all for your love and kindness. My heart is full with love right now towards each of you.
love love
Elo
Elise, I am SO sorry to hear about this experience you had this week. That must have been so awful and difficult for you. I'm glad you posted this because I have been thinking a lot about you lately and how much of a "true friend" you are, as defined by the quote above. I love being aroung you! You lift my heart and my spirit and make it easier to be me and to love me. You are so dear to me, Elo, and I need YOU. Call me if you want to chat about this and need an extra support and sounding board as you deal with this. I love you, pet.
ReplyDeleteJess