On Sunday I happened to have a heartfelt, perfectly timed, deeply connecting conversation with a dear friend in, of course, the church restroom (which is the best place for heartfelt conversations). In the near eight-minute conversation during which no one else entered, we resonated on such a close level as to be almost cellular. We laughed, we cried, we philosophized. At the end and with a hug I told her, “You know, you’re a pajama friend.”
That phrase has since stuck with me. Because it truly describes the kind of friends you can completely, utterly, and always be yourself with, and can feel continual love and support in return.
That’s priceless.
Pajama, or PJ friends, don’t have to be lifelong in the making. Sometimes those split-second soul-bonding moments (such as in a restroom) are all it takes to confirm this is a keeper connection. When you have such a moment, take it. Be open. Share your thoughts. Set that lunch date and do it. Those moments are gifts wrapped and ready to be opened then and there, and treasured often thereafter.
These PJ friends are the type that love and forgive, are patient when they should pout, and who get you in a way that can be explained but is oh so needed. For the past few years one PJ friend has been absolutely angelic: I have several times (meaning at least seven but we’ve lost count) attempted to schedule, then rescheduled, and have even forgotten the re-scheduled breakfast/lunch/catch you as I can dates we’ve set. And this after me doing a Studio 5 segment on the importance of friendship! And yet, I love this woman and cannot wait to catch up with her. Would she know this by my actions? I can only beg forgiveness and the reality of a mother of seven and few remaining gray cells that actually function. Some friends would bail. But this wonderful gal just emailed me the other day yet again to give it another shot, and without animosity or paintball guns to boot. How I LOVE this woman! (Thank you, Heather!)
You’ll find PJ friends in the most surprisingly normal situations. My PJ friends are from all walks as well as stages of life—writing, blogging, mission, college, media, working out, the list is as varied as the personalities. But one thing in common is that they are genuine. These friends are the kind of people you can get in your comfies, bring out a box of Sees, and solve the world’s problems (and possibly your own). Either way, you both go home feeling happier and ready for what’s next.
This week, open your heart and share a bit of your soul with a PJ friend. Create an opportunity or jump at it when it comes. Whether it’s for eight minutes or a whole evening, make the time for those that love and adore you, come what may.
Best,
Connie
P.S. Great gifts! Simplify & Savor the Season—do it fun and fabulously, and for 3 for $25 with a FREE Take-along planner booklet. click here.
P.P.S. If you missed Connie’s Studio 5 segment on “Helping Our Girls Avoid Media Influence” click here:
