‘A friend loves at all times’
Proverbs 17:17

On the 30^th of July, I’ll be sipping prosecco and gorging on a delicious brunch; all whilst being surrounded by friends and family. There’ll be funny memories being shared and perhaps even a labour story from mum.

My year of being 26 is almost over and so much has happened in 12 months. It has stretched my resilience and tested my friendships; it’s questioned my health and examined my faith. Here’s a snapshot of some of the key things that happened.

I had a breast cancer scare.

The lump was irritating and it became uncomfortable to wear a bra. I headed to my GP and she calmly sent me to the hospital. After having a specialist check the lump and have an ultrasound scan, I was told I was clear. No cancer. My mum went through the anxious process with me and I never felt alone.

I moved for the third time since getting married in 2015.

My husband and I joined the property ladder and purchased our first home. It was a whirlwind of learning the mortgage lingo and packing up our material life, again. Our family and friends helped pack boxes, answer tearful phone calls and carry our belongings up two flights of stairs to our new home – No. 6.

I became chronically depressed.

My mind went into an incredibly dark place which many couldn’t see, yet it left me debilitated with chronic depression. A monthly trip to the doctors began and I started the process of taking new medication and therapy. My friends picked me up of the street in the early hours of the morning. My husband stuck by me in the darkest of times.

As I reflect on the highs and lows, the positives and negatives, I realise how true the verse ‘A friend loves at all times’ is for me.

I’ve learn that friendship comes in all sorts of forms and goes beyond having a ‘bestie’. My mum, in-laws, work colleagues and friends have all shown elements of ‘friendship’ to me.

At the end of July, not only is it my 27^th birthday, but also International Day of Friendship. A day where the United Nations encourages everyone to celebrate friendships between people, countries, cultures and individuals.

I challenge us all to think about the last year of our lives and celebrate those that have contributed to us being loved at all times. Take a moment and think, how can you intentionally celebrate International Day of Friendship this year?

It could be inviting a friend out for coffee and thanking them for supporting you during a tough time. Or celebrating a continued friendship by heading out on a trip to your favourite hang out spot. Perhaps even writing a card to someone to remind them that they are loved.

You can join in by commenting on this blog, or tweeting me @LizEdge_ and share how you’re celebrating International Day of Friendship. I look forward to celebrating with you!

Liz Edge is a freelance Youth Work Practitioner based in Dorset. Find out more about Liz and her work at Liz-Edge.co.uk.