This past week I found myself homeless and lost.  My lease had ended and contemplating between job offers forced me to delay apartment hunting until I knew where I would be.  I was stressed and strained not knowing where to go.  This was a time of no bed, no place to store my belongings, no home, and no place to feel safe and secure.

Out of the confusion arose a glimmering beacon of kindness I did not anticipate.  Friends knowing of my predicament welcomed me into their homes and into their lives.  They came to me to offer support without any hesitation or any hidden agenda.  My friends offered their time and couches for the sole purpose of helping a friend in need.  The actions of my friends restored my faith in the goodwill of others.  Witnessing firsthand, truly selfless acts.

Weary and feeling guilty for imposing on their space, I was hesitant as I walked into their homes.  Taken aback at the hospitality, I still to this day almost don’t believe it to be real.  Literally clasping my hands over my mouth in utter disbelief at the kindness of awe of my friends.  I could not comprehend arriving at Josh’s apartment to find him already having ordered me takeout dinner.  I could not convince myself this was really happening when Karina handed fresh sheets and offered a bed as I walked in the door.

Friends left and right stepped up to the plate without being asked.  Knowing my circumstance, I was offered couches and places to crash.  Friends like Lina asking me to lunch just to vent, talk and walk.  Even meeting with Diana for a simple cup of coffee I received a box of chocolates out of the blue.  “I just want you to be happy.”  The measure of a true friend; someone who genuinely cares about your happiness.  To give without the need to receive, those are the purest of hearts out there.

I count myself blessed to have discovered the selfless and most generous of friends in my life.  The truest of friends showed their colors to me without hesitation, ulterior motives, or seeking to benefit themselves.  Their deeds and the actions toward me changed my perception of what a friend truly is.

Through certain past experiences I had grown to expect less.  At the time it did not seem as though some of my friendships were lacking.  Through particular superficial friendships I had been taught that things were only offered with the expectations of receiving something in return.  I now know better and my faith in the goodness of others restored.

These acts of kindness will not be forgotten.  I aim to be a true friend to any and all that I know.  It’s not because I want something back or because I’m returning a favor, but because it’s the right thing to do.  I will follow by the example of those selfless few around me. Those truest of friends I will cherish you for a lifetime and more.

Article and Illustrations by BCB