Birds of a Feather..

They say... Birds of a feather flock together.                 

What is Friendship? 
 
According to Wikipedia-  Friendship is a relationship of mutual affection between two or more people.  Friendship is a stronger form of interpersonal bond than an association.

Although there are many forms of friendship, some of which may vary from place to place, certain characteristics are present in many types of friendship. Such characteristics include affection, sympathy, empathy, honesty, mutual understanding and compassion, enjoyment of each others company, trust, and the ability to be oneself, express one's feelings, and make mistakes without fear of judgment from the friend.

I would say that the almighty Wikipedia nailed it!  Over the past 2 or 3 years, I desperately needed to find a place where people understood our life.  The Autism life.  A place where parents were going through the same struggles as we were.  I settled into a few online groups and have really made deeper connections, than I had ever thought possible.  I've grown as a person and as a parent.  So many years ago, I started with a feeling of being completely lost and alone but that soon blossomed into friendships.  Friendships with other parents who had those same feelings at one time.  I have many friends who live all over the world.  Wonderful friends who blog, friends I've met in those online support groups.  Groups I'm proud to be part of, my sanctuary most days.  Although, we have never "met" in person, we talk on a daily basis.  I can share my triumphs, my sadness, my frustrations, seek advice and give some too.  All of this free from judgement. 

This is what true friendship means to me.  Being there through thick and thin.  Shedding a few tears along the way, giving encouragement, advice and always cheering each other on when we most need it.  I don't freely open my heart to people nor do I take friendships lightly.  Some would say, I have set the bar high.   

My people, my flock, my friends. They hold a special place in my heart. 

                                                   Birds of a feather....  

Flock together.