“Birds of a feather flock together”… I cannot tell you how many times I heard my Momma say this. Sometimes, it was about me and my friends. Sometimes, it would be about people who were busy talking about others behind their backs. Then there were those times it was about the choices she had made.
I am blessed beyond measure. I have wonderful friends and folks in my life and if I was to be judged by others on my friends, I would be proud to be one of them. But as a girl with sometimes a blind eye, deaf ear, and generous spirit, I pick up a few birds that aren’t of my feather.
I spent the weekend with some folks that are truly some of the best people I have ever known. They have smiles, and arms outstretched before you get even within hugging distance. They really want to know how you are. They actually take the time to listen. They give genuine compliments and are just as genuinely pleased to see you. It’s not just my sweet friend or her awesome husband of almost 30 years, but their amazing children are just as nice.
We were able to spend a few days with these folks, and their kids and their new grand-baby, and all of their lifelong truest friends. And more than any other statement I could make about my most fun filled weekend… but “Birds of a feather flock together”!!!!
I am so fortunate to be able to call them friends, and now to add all these other wonderfully welcoming and genuine people to my circle. A girl couldn’t ask for more. I sat yesterday morning watching as my friends were able to greet more folks as they arrived to wish a happy birthday. And to be met with smiles from ear to ear and arms outstretched and great conversation and banter is something downright indescribable.
I left my weekend and as we headed up the interstate my smile was still brimming and my heart was still full. My laughter was still spilling over from my soul and lips. My eyes were still a bit watery from constant laughter and jokes and just good old fashion “ribbing”.
If these are my birds then I sure am lucky to be a part of this flock. I hope I am able to fly as high and shine as bright as these wonderful people. I hope I can love others as wonderfully and lovingly as they do. I hope I can be the kind of friend they are and have the kind of friends they have that drive a few hours just to be in their presence. Just to feel the bond and love and hugs they give. To see them look you in the eye and hold you a bit longer than others do so you know you are special to them.
I hear all the time how things are bigger in Texas. Well, friends, I am here to tell you if friendship counts then it’s a fact. My friends are from deep in the heart of Texas and they have a kinship that reaches far beyond our state borders. They are like a glass of sweet tea on an August evening after the yard was mowed and the sweet smell of grass fills the air. With kids down the block playing a last ditch effort of dodge ball before it’s too dark to see and you can hear their giggles, laughter, screams and shrill voices fill the air. It’s a welcomed event that is missed and treasured… that’s exactly how I felt as I lay down last night after having been able to spend this precious time in their presence. Like a bird that takes flight and knows the winds cannot push us down as long as we flock together.
About The Author: Barbie Driskell (Aunt B) was raised in the shade of pine trees of East Texas. “I am very proud of my roots, just like a pine tree, may not be deep but they sure take over when left to their own devices. I smile frequently, laugh genuinely and live simply.”
