A friend loves at all times… (Proverbs 17:17)

Ten years ago she stood behind me fastening the last clasp on my wedding dress. She adjusted my veil, told me I looked beautiful, then reminded me of the signal I was supposed to use if – before the “I do’s” – I had a single doubt about my committment to a lifetime kind of love.

This morning she leaned across the middle console of my truck and gave me a tight squeeze, then rushed with her family through the airport doors to catch their flight home.

My best friend. My iron sharpener (Proverbs 27:17).

Our weekend was spent staying up far too late while indulging in sweets like ice cream bars and vanilla scones. And while we laughed and vented about the adventures of our separate family lives and all the happenings we’ve missed out on since we last saw each other, we parted encouraging one another in our roles as wives, mothers, and daughters of the Most High God.

Facebook friends are one thing. Pew pals another. Twitter ties…they’re cool.

But a true friend, the kind who loves at all times – even when you’re hard-headed and difficult to love – is a rare and precious gift. A gift worth thanking God for.

Who’s your forever friend deserving of thanks right now?