Friendship: Perseverance over Proximity
“The better part of one’s life consists of his friendships.” Abraham Lincoln
The words of our 16th President could not be truer. This weekend my family has the privilege of spending time with some of our best friends. Liz and I met Garrett and Sarah in a Young Married Sunday School Class in Jacksonville, NC. We were both military families in the “pre-kids” stage of life. Garrett and I instantly connected over our love for Texas high school football. Liz and Sarah bonded quickly over the shared experience of having such awesome husbands…… Our families have been doing “life together” ever since.
The interesting story of our friendship is that only once have we ever actually lived in the same state, at the same time….and only for a little over 18 months. As active duty Marines both of our families were continually moving around. North Carolina, Florida, Virginia, Ohio, and California were just a few of the places our families lived; however never at the same time!
As Garrett and I are now past our active-duty time in the Marine Corps, both of our families have settled down in Texas. Over 10 years and 6 kids later, we are now only a 5 hour drive away from each other.
Through this unique long-distance friendship, what I have learned is that perseverance is more important than proximity. The commitment our families have to each other is not swayed based upon the distances between our front doors.
Throughout our many moves in the Marine Corps, Liz and I learned that not every friendship is meant to last a lifetime. Many are gifts of friendship meant to bless us for a certain season; however I am truly thankful for lifetime friends…..I am thankful for the Hager Family.
Brad Flurry 