Part of Slice of Life by Two Writing Teachers
I probably didn’t know all the way back in 5th grade that Sara would become so important to me. I sat down next to her on the bus, or so the old story goes… and she didn’t know what to do with me. I might have even been wearing my neon tie-dye stirrup pants… with or without the matching t-shirt. (I mean at that point, does it even matter if you have a matching t-shirt?) Our friendship has obviously strengthened from that point… and also, leggings ARE back in style…
We stayed at her house after Thanksgiving, because of course she opened her doors for us when we had to go to the area for a doctor’s appointment for E. As we were leaving, she handed us the a large box — with strict instructions for me to open it on December 1. I knew it must have something to do with my December birthday, so I rolled my eyes at her and said her name in that way that means, “I can’t believe you are so nice, it’s already too much.”
December 1 rolled around, and the kids were quick to remind me that I had a job to do: Open that box!
I’d publish her note here, if it was at all reasonable to do so, because she’s a beautiful friend, a beautiful writer, and a beautiful person. (So, of course I cried.)
And then I turned over my little day 1 circle (“You are kind”) and opened my day 1 present: Harry Potter magnetic page clips. Only a true friend would somehow know me so well.. and each day it has been so fun to turn my circle and open my gift. A travel mug, a notepad, swedish fish, fun binder clips…and lovely affirmations. It’s nice to be known.
This morning I was running late (no big surprise here) and the boys were begging me to open Sara’s gift.
“I have to pack my lunch,” I explained. “We will open it after school.”
But, they begged, pleaded, and carried the board and the gift over to the counter.
“Fine. But, I’m doing this instead of having a lunch today!” I told them with a little loving snarl in my voice.
And then I turned over the circle. “You put others before yourself.”
And then we all laughed as I said, “See? Sara knows it!”
It’s nice to be known.
On a Thought 
Oh, yes it is. It’s lovely to have people in our lives who can remind us who we are. What a lovely thoughtful gift.
What treasures; time with her, your kids getting to see that you are known, and you being celebrated.
A warm and wonderful slice on the stuff life is truly made of – I, too, would be delighted with the Harry Potter clips!