‘“Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo—what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.” ~Oprah

Lately, I have been filled with so much love for the women in my life. Seriously to the point that when I think of them or speak to them, I am compelled to cry and tell them how much I love them and feel so grateful. I cannot blame it on hormones anymore, it’s just me being fully immersed in the love and gratitude for the special element, that only women can bring to another woman.

I have many women in my life, some who have been in my life for decades some who are new to my circle, each and every one of them is different in so many ways; age, culture, religion, ethnicity, socio economic, race, relationship status. What brings us together is our heart. Our commonality is our humanity and love.

The women who hold me and whom I hold, that is everything in this life. I would not be here today if not for the many. I have had a good life, but at many turns it was painful. I have been more than blessed to have my women, all so very different from each other but each one brings into my life her own special gift. The grace they bring is immeasurable.

I used to have a client who lived in a very wealthy area in California and she often spoke of not fitting in. We discussed the importance of having “our tribe” around us. How even our husband/partner and children could not fill the space that a good female friend could fill. Women need women. It is simple and true. Even if they are far away, it is a bond that time and space cannot dismantle. Once the roots of friendship takes hold, there is nothing that can take away from it. Not distance, not time.

The farewells, have not been easy. Even as we promise that we will see each other again, we understand that a vast ocean can be a challenging journey. Yet, it is in that promise that I find peace and hope as I move forward. It is in that promise that love lives vibrantly and keeps our hearts connected. In just a week, I will begin a road trip to Austin to see my son with my niece Veronica, giving us an opportunity to have a few days of one on one. I am grateful for this time and for the time I will have with my son and my beautiful daughter-in-law, as well as one of my oldest friends and family. At 63 years old, I did not imagine such a journey, but I guess if you ask others about this, they would say – it is not surprising.

This is dedicated to all the women who for the past few decades have experienced the ebb and flow of life with me, but especially to my friend/sister Lisa who I have known since I was 24 and who I swore I would grow old with (but given the temperament and impermanence of this life, might still be so).

Thank you for making my life, simply put,…….splendid.

With Love, Light, Joy and deep Hope,

Maria