After weeks of praying, prepping, analyzing, and re-analyzing my thoughts on friendship, I had the privilege of sharing the material with the women of Grace Presbyterian Church. We had a ball. Kelsey helped me at my book table, so it was a real party!

The experience of preparing was more personal than I anticipated. The process of thinking back through my history of relationship mistakes, lessons, and successes was powerful. I realized that even though I have made many mistakes, I am blessed with many dear friends.

A few of those dear friends were in the audience and a couple sat close to the front of the stage. I could see their eyes as I spoke about how loving and supportive they were to my family and myself in a difficult season. Midsentence I was choked up with unexpected tears. I had to look down at my notes to regain my composure so I could go on.

In that moment I realized once again the pricelessness of true friendship. There are few things that mean as much.

I will always be thankful for and amazed at all my friends.

BTW–If you couldn’t make the conference you can listen here.

Brenda Garrison is an author and speaker who empowers women with the confidence to live their calling. Brenda is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Ministry Leadership with a Concentration in Women’s Ministry at Moody Bible Institute. She and her husband, Gene, are the parents of three young adult daughters and live near Metamora, IL.