“Make new friends, but keep the old; Those are silver, these are gold.” As I rested and reflected on a recent weekend spent with five of my sorority sisters, these words simmered on my mind. It’s been 30+ years since we graduated from college, and since then we’ve reconnected during trips together – Chicago, New York, Nashville, etc. At each gathering we’ve reminisced about life back in the good ole’ college days as we launched into the unknown with optimism and excitement ready to conquer the world.
But life didn’t turn out as planned. Collectively we have struggled through divorce, depression, loss of parents, career changes, cross-country moves, and cancer. And let’s not even get started on the kids! Many of our children have had difficulties too. The real world did indeed arrive, but most days we didn’t conquer it. Some days we just survived.
Despite the challenges, our time together reminded me once again that we don’t have to struggle alone. We have each other. Despite our geographic separation and infrequent gatherings, I know I have friends – sisters – who know me, really know me. And they’re there when I need them, to encourage and uplift me and also to tell me the truth even if I don’t want to hear it. That’s who true friends are – they have our backs, as well as a shoulder, a hand, an ear, and a voice in our lives. And because of them, through our trials we may not only survive but we may grow – in strength, patience, and faith.
So today I am especially grateful for my dear friends who have been by my side for most of my adult existence – my Pi Phi sisters of the wine and silver blue.
You are pure gold.
New Friends and Old Friends By: Joseph Parry
Make new friends, but keep the old; Those are silver, these are gold. New-made friendships, like new wine, age will mellow and refine.
Friendships that have stood the test – Time and change are surely best; Brow may wrinkle, hair grow gray, friendship never knows decay.
For 'mid old friends, tried and true, once more we our youth renew. But old friends, alas! may die, new friends must their place supply. Cherish friendship in your breast – New is good, but old is best;
Make new friends, but keep the old; Those are silver, these are gold.
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