Proverbs 27:9
My least favorite place in any department store is the perfume and makeup area. There are just too many scents that are intermingled and my brain becomes overloaded and my stomach churns in confusion. Not a pleasant sight! However, singular scents and aromas evict emotions with vivid memories. I can still remember the scent of my wife's grandmother, even though she has passed on. And the pleasant memories spill forward just thinking of her scent. The same is true during this holiday season - the smell of the turkey coming out of the oven or the chocolate creations my wife makes each holiday surrounds me with a feeling of "home" which is so peaceful for the road-weary traveler I am through out the year.
As Solomon points out above, the same peacefulness is gained by strong counsel by a friend. While they may not always agree with you. You can be confident they are truly expressing their own opinion. And when an issue is resolved, peacefulness is obtained. Such honesty in opinion mingled with a love of friendship is not an ordinary occurrence. If you are blessed with such a relationship - be thankful and let them know your appreciation.
As Solomon states, in order to have such a friend - we must be a friend ourselves (Proverbs 18:24). Commit to give of yourself to others in an honest and caring manner. Then you will be welcomed as the smell of freshly-baked tea cakes coming from the oven!
