On the Road to Transition
Friends are like leaves on a tree. Some hold fast until winter’s frost, while others blow in and out of our lives like a strong wind.
I met Toni when I was working in Washington D.C. for a company specializing in making loans to small businesses. I worked in accounting, and Toni was hired as the President’s new Administrative Assistant.
Our connection was instant. Toni was like someone you’ve always known, but somehow just met. I was drawn to her intelligence, quick wit, and charming southern demeanor she carried with her from her home state of Arkansas.
Soon after we met, a friendship was forged. We had both been art majors, we loved nature and going to the movies. We were in and out of relationships like revolving doors, and we never cared who won the Super Bowl. Laughter came easily and we also had our share of tears. When our hearts were broken, we’d talk for hours trying to figure out how it all went wrong…
again!
Many years later, Toni announced she had met the “
One
.” Our ten year friendship was about to change. She would transition from my best friend to someone’s wife. And I had to figure out what to do, now that my right arm had gone missing.
I was apprehensive about my new life without my “partner in crime.” Until I made new friends and embraced new interests, I had to go it alone. I was confused and thrown off balance. How could I ever get back on course? But with time and patience with myself, apprehension and fear gave way to hope. I joined a book club, volunteered at the public library and became a potter.
Toni and I still talk on the phone about movies we’ve seen, and matters of the
heart. We reminisce about years past, and laugh about situations we had gotten ourselves into and somehow found our way out of. I think of our special bond and how it has endured over time. Holding on like that last leaf in winter.
Alice Barbera
