A friendship can weather most things and thrive in thin soil; but it needs a little mulch of letters and phone calls and small, silly presents every so often -- Pam Brown, Australian author
I'm always super-delighted to get a phone call from my longtime friend Carol in Massachusetts, since we only see each other in-person every few years. It's great to get caught up on all our news, reminisce about things we've shared in the past, and giggle about what adventures we might have in the future.
When my husband and I schedule a phone call on a Sunday morning with my husband's sister, who lives in Australia, I really look forward to learning about her very different life "down under." It's interesting that she has developed an Aussie accent after living there for decades, and it's good to have a lively back-and-forth conversation with her. The reception is so clear, it sounds as if she's right here in our living room.
Occasionally my stepson gives us a surprise call from Miami, often on his cell phone, with the noise of the football game he's attending in the background. That's fine -- I love the spontaneity of the experience, and the fact that he's interested in actually talking with us, rather than just texting or e-mailing.
How glad I am to make and receive phone calls, in addition to the ubiquitous e-mail and text messaging, and communicating through all the new social media. Sure, you can indicate that you are laughing or smiling by inserting a yellow smiley-face icon in your e-mail, but to me, hearing a friend's familiar laugh is far more satisfying.
If your friend is going through a tough time, calling her to convey your concern, and then being there, on the other end of the line, to comfort her if she starts to cry is proof positive of your tender friendship.
Yesterday I had the most pleasant hour-and-a-half interlude in my workday. A business colleague who is also rapidly becoming a good friend called to discuss various subjects. We ended up having a great time, in addition to sharing information. Vive la phone call!
Linda Jay Geldens, www.LindaJayGeldens.com
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