v 41 Both of them were in tears as they embraced each other and said good-bye, especially David.
David and Jonathan now realised only too well that they would have to go their own individual ways. This parting was immensely difficult and brought both these tough men to tears.
This is the kind of parting that often comes in relationships when one or the other moves away to resettle in new work or a new home. Good friendships add such significant stability to our lives that parting brings deep heartache – it is almost like the loss of a limb. It is hard to maintain a friendship at a distance.
Reflect today on the friends you have left behind at different stages in your life. Old School friends, Christian friends in other churches, helpful workmates, good neighbours – all sorts of people who have walked with you on your pathway through life. Some friendships have been relegated to the Christmas Card or Birthday list, some have dropped right over the edge and we hardly know their addresses. Others have perhaps passed on – even without us being made aware of the loss.
Is this the moment to write a brief note thanking someone, now living at a distance from you, for what they meant to you, and how you valued their friendship? And even when a friend lives near you, take a moment to express your appreciation for that friendship.