A Friend In Need

Tonight, I called a friend whom I've known for most of my life. We've seen each other weather breakups, depression, unemployment, and other messy life situations, and cheered for each other's successes and joys. I hadn't talked to her in a few months, so it was nice to catch up with her.

I hadn't planned on telling her, actually, but of all of the women in my life right now who comprise my close friends and family, I knew that she would be the most understanding and supportive. I don't want to tell my sisters because I fear that they would pity me. "Poor, poor you, having to go through such an ordeal. We never thought that this would happen to you. How could this happen?"

Again, irrational fears, keeping this most personal of decisions from those who should by rights be among the closest to me. But I'm not ready to share this with anyone in my family -- it's too weighty a secret to ask one sister to bear alone. I have my friend, and my boyfriend, my life partner, the love of my life. And that's enough for me, for now.

My sincerest gratitude to my friend for her understanding, caring, and vast wisdom.

And of course, my gratitude to my boyfriend is inexpressible. He alone knows how much his strength and presence by my side means to me in these times. I thank you, my love.