The three men in the coffee shop (a story about friendship)
They sit there–the three of them–at the table by the window in the coffee shop I often write at.
It seems like they’re always there, whether it’s at the beginning of the month or the end,
whether it’s a Monday
or a Friday.
The same three men, the same table, the same ceramic mugs.
They’re older…
with gray hair,
weathered skin,
and deep laugh lines.
I admit; I’ve listened to their conversations.
It’s hard not to.
They talk with a sense of familiarity that makes you want to know what they’re saying,
and how they came to be such good friends.
(You can tell that they are.)
They talk about family.
And news.
And retirement.
And politics.
Sometimes they disagree and their voices get loud,
but they never get angry.
Most of the time,
they simply share stories,
and ask each other questions,
and smile.
Every so often, one of them will talk quietly–too quietly for other people in the coffee shop to hear–and by the way the other two men lean in with a look of concern on their faces, you know they’re discussing something serious,
even sad.
But you also know,
just by watching them,
that whatever the burden may be,
it is lighter when they leave,
because they’ve spent time together.
And that’s what being with true friends does.
Doesn’t it?
May you be surrounded by a multitude of true friends this year. Happy New Year!
Other friendship stories:
The story about the best friends on the train
The story about the friends in the coffee shop
Some good New Year’s reads:
Visit Jennifer at Converstion Diary for her 12 Best Links of 2010.
Visit Holley to find out what the New Year holds.
And if you’re struggling with pain or hardship this time of year, visit 5MinutesforFaith to read Kimberly’s story. Her honesty will encourage you.
I love reading friendship stories. I had my own to share this year and I wrote about it in several posts on my blog…it was too precious to try and tell in one simple blog post. You can read "Faith's Journey to Hope" at http://www.ponderinginhispresence.blogspot.com It is a beautiful God story.Blessings to you on 2011,Joy
That was a beautiful story… I hope to have those kinds of friends too.I am starting to cultivate friends now that my kids are getting older and don't need a much of my time.Happy New Year to you. :)
Here's the exact link to "Part 1" of the https://ponderinginhispresence.blogspot.com/2010/04/faiths-journey-to-hope-part-1.html
And you as well Genny!! Prayers for a safe and happy 2011!Blessings-Amanda
Wishing you all a Happy New Year! Joyful, thanks for sharing your story. :)
I loved reading your story. You write so beautifully. I felt like I was sitting drinking my own cup of coffee with you, observing these three precious friends. :)They actually made me think of my grandparents. I remember spending the night with them and getting to go along with them to Hardees for breakfast, to meet up with their breakfast gang. Fun memories. :) Happy New Year, Genny! (And thank you for the kind words and link.) Blessings,K
What a beautiful story of friendship. I pray that I will have these kinds of relationships throughout the remainder of my lifetime.
So do I, Barbie!
Newest follower. Great story on friendship. Look forward to reading more stories in 2011.Clay https://www.tantrumstroublesandtreasures.blogspot.comtwitter: @claylauren2001
What a lovely story! Thanks so much for sharing it!