When friendship and faith come together
     And share a meal
     My skittish, shy soul begins to reveal itself

When friendship and faith come together
     And over wine, discuss words of wisdom
     My spirit expands with new understanding and truth

When friendship and faith come together
     And share private stories and deepest thoughts
     My mind cracks open to insights and wisdom beyond my confined experience

When friendship and faith come together
     And manifest honesty, openness & authenticity
     My self is drawn beyond itself

When friendship and faith come together
     And love and laughter and tears and pain break open
     My world crackles to life

With friendship and faith
     My world is lighter
     My step is quicker
     My heart is fuller
     My thoughts are richer
     My life is deeper

I am not alone.
And my soul dances in thanksgiving.

Originally written: 10/10-11/12, 2019