Phil'sown dot Org

Erica
Aug 27, 2008

Having had my share of friends come and go, I hear your heart here, Phil. You wonder if the friendships weren't as real or strong as you thought. You wonder if they meant more to you than them, etc. etc. etc. The reality is - sometimes chapters are just over. In the grand scheme of things, we all impact each other in different ways. We can choose to remember with fondness or with heartache and bitterness. Sometimes separation is for a season. Sometimes a lifetime. You know I like Michael W. Smith and you're probably going to roll your eyes at the corniness factor, but I don't care. I'm reminded of the song he wrote, "Friends". The lines "Packing up the dreams God planted
In the fertile soil of you Can't believe the hopes he's granted
Means a chapter in your life is through
But well keep you close as always
It wont even seem you've gone
cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong."
The fertile soil...in planting, as in seasons, there is death, there is change, there is birth, there is life. All we can do is celebrate what we're growing in to...and be thankful that we had those come into our lives who stopped to encourage us to grow.

Phillipians 1:3 - "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you." And I do.

Matt Gray
Aug 27, 2008

If I had a quarter for all the friends who came and went... OK, you know where I'm going with this, but seriously- thanks for not using any lame excuses for not being my friend. I really appreciate it.

Jeff
Aug 27, 2008

Phil, as one of your Phoenix friends, we miss you, too! And we haven't forgotten you. Some days are just really busy, especially with the kids around. We want to stay in touch!

Phil
Aug 27, 2008

Thanks Jeff & Matt. I miss you guys. I've been wanting (trying at times) to get a hold of you... :-) Thanks for the encouragement, Erica. I want to talk to you too, but it hasn't been as long for us.