A&W

5 Traits of a True Friend spoke volumes to me as I was trying to search for the words to describe my friendship with this beautiful young woman.  Amanda Wilfer.  I had the opportunity to finally see Wilfer on Sunday morning, as she was in the Cities for a friends wedding.  So we seized the opportunity to rendezvous for brunch. We concluded we hadn't seen each other in over 3 years.  (we agreed that, that was unacceptable).

Wilfer is: one of the most important and influential persons in my life (and has been since we first met), my soul sister (we share so many intellectual, emotional, and physical characteristics  - we have to be related some how), honestly my hero and role model (She's a big deal), one of the most genuine and sincere people I have ever met, and such an inspiration in all that she does.

She is also one of those friends, who unfortunately, we go far too long between phone dates...but regardless, we always pick up like absolutely no time has gone by.  The 5 Traits of a True Friend is a great illustration of the type of friendship Wilfer gives me, but at the same time it doesn't even begin to scratch the surface.

"conversational is that they not only talk, but also take time to listen. It is not one-sided conversation, but rather a balanced interaction between two hearts and minds that leaves both parties uplifted and enlightened."

I don't know if I've even ever told her this, but when we first met, I was almost intimidated by her, because she listened so well.  I couldn't get away with mumbling anything, because she would say "sorry, what was that?".  Most people don't care enough to actually listen.  So initially it caught me of guard and was almost uncomfortable because I wasn't used to being listened to in that depth.  But its a trait of hers that I truly admire.  I can only speak for myself, but even if our conversations deal with heavy hearted issues, I always feel uplifted.

Rather than being someone who sucks the very life out of their relationship, a true friend is aware of the needs of the other person...

So often Wilfer stops what she is saying and actually apologizes for 'talking too much'.  Which is just ridiculous.  I could listen to her read the phone book and never be bored or overwhelmed.  But she is sensitive to the balance and the give and take in a friendship.  And as I mentioned previously, I always feel uplifted, never as though my life has been sucked out of me.

..covered by a generous sprinkling of humility where both parties cheer on each of their successes, and comfort each other in their losses. The relationship is built upon the win/win philosophy.


Wilfer is one of thee most supportive people I have ever met.  She gives support when celebrating successes, asks the tough questions when you need reality, and is always there to cheer you on.  I hope that I can return that to her as I am so proud of her, and so amazed that she is always true to herself.  She is also one of my biggest blog fans, so I wanted to make sure to give her a shout out.  Love you girl!

And through faithfulness, the friendship is forever strengthened.

Amen.  I can't wait to see her again in a few weeks.  Over brunch this last Sunday, we decided to take on the Maple Leaf 5 Mile Run together during the Oktoberfest Celebration, in La Crosse.  Over the many years we have both been competitive athletes, we have yet to compete or participate in an event together.  We could be crossing a river of Lava with Piranha's chasing us, and I think we would still have fun.  So needless to say, I'm looking forward to running with her.  I 'supose I should start running a little bit then huh. :)