Good Friends

Nearly three years ago I drove to Seattle (with my now wife, M) and moved into a tiny room in a small house along with 5 guys and a dog named Stella - the 135 as we lovingly called it. When I moved out after finishing Mars Hill Graduate School, I left many things behind: a toaster, a dresser, a bed, 35 Send Blaine To Mars mugs, a million odd things I can’t remember, and the glass below (it was part of a set M and I bought at Urban Outfitters during a Seattle visit).

Late last night this photo floated into my inbox after a long trip all the way from the Pacific Northwest. It made me smile and it made me cry. I can truly say that I have never had friends like these. They spoke truth to me in ways I had never experienced. I am deeply thankful for all the faces (and hands) I can see.

To The 135 and those who are nearby, you’ve marked me forever.