My sweet circle

      I don't need much. Maybe a good cup of coffee, some calming silence and my sweet circle. I'm talking about my circle of friends. It's not really a huge circle, but I know the people that created it are my beloved friends for life. In thick or thin they have proven to be loyal and trustworthy and God-fearing. Full of love and respect for the one true God. 

     I'm not a social butterfly. I believe there are two breeds to this. One, where a person must know as many people as they can to feel satisfied. The other, secure with the people God places before them. He always weeds out the ones that are not good for me. A few who are loyal and loving and trusting, to me, are worth a million dollars to me and I praise God for each and every one of them, I am content. 

     It was extremely difficult maintaining this way of life when I played music weekly. Everyone wants to be your friend. I would always find myself up on the stage by my brother-in-law Gary, waiting for our break to end and start up the music again. Looking out at the crowd made me feel good about being on that side of the stage. 

     My beloved circle of friends includes mommies, priests, career people, and daughters. Sadly, my siblings, I have found,  have grown distant. Except for my big brother John. He is one in my circle that I will surely Miss someday. He makes me laugh so. Him and I are 10 years apart, but age has no definitive to the wisdom we can both understand when speaking to each other. 

     Within this circle comes peace. In the troubling moments each of us has, we know we can rely on each other in a split second when we are called upon. The comfort this circle is worth a million dollars to me and I praise God for each and every one of them. Your circle is important. Surround yourself with those that will pray with you, help guide you and reprimand you if needed. Pray always that the circle surrounds you with God's Holy guidance and discernment. He is listening and wants us to go to heaven, helping each other along the way.