Last evening after work I attended the CoxHealth women’s event, Red Hot Night. While I love my husband dearly, not much can compare to a gathering of phenomenal women – throw in some alcohol therapy, female-geared events (hair styling, eye makeup, women’s health issues, accupuncture, chair massages to name a few), fabulous food and scintillating conversation and you have a combination that could jump-start anyone out of the doldrums! The event was held at the Tower Club which as always did not disappoint as an event venue – guess that’s why Burl and I chose it for our wedding reception a few years ago – and perhaps why I like it so much now for the great memories!
My only regret was not getting to spend enough time with several friends who I don’t see often. I visited with a couple of friends while we ate – one a long-time friend from our Leadership Springfield days and someone whose friendship seems to constantly grow the more time we spend together. The other is a recent transplant to Springfield who I admire more every time we talk – it was interesting to hear her tell of living in much more cosmopolitan areas and then relocating here to take a job with MSU. Her comment about how strong the women are in Springfield filled me with pride – we are a strong lot and darned proud of it too!
I was fortunate to make a purchase at the silent auction and now can look forward to a 1-hour Healing Touch session with my friend Mary. She practices a nurturing energy therapy (just writing those words is soothing and reviving at the same time) and I like her approach of balancing the whole person – mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally. We began as co-workers and through a book club at work have developed a friendship that goes beyond workplace issues.
Driving home last evening I reflected on the female role models I’ve had – starting of course with my mother but including my daughters, my sister, aunts, mothers of friends, teachers from an early age on throughout my education, friends I’ve made along the way – some for a lifetime and some for a short time – but they all have so much to give and best of all, they give freely and generously. Female friends listen not only with their ears but with their heart – they are willing to laugh, cry, cuss, discuss, pray, hug – whatever it takes depending on the situation. I can only hope that I respond to my friends the way they respond to me – with love, compassion, understanding and a strong margarita when necessary! Here’s to my girlfriends!
