Usually when I write a post for this blog I reflect on the spiritual life and give some practical advice about how to live in deeper friendship with the Lord.  However, this post, prompted by a recent experience, is more a reflection on the gift of friendship.  If anything, I hope it makes you more grateful for the friends that God has blessed you with.

On Tuesday morning I drove 2 ½ hours to southern Maine to join four of my brother priests for an extended day away.  Normally, if I do get away for an overnight, I drive home to Westerly to visit with my family and to have a little downtime.  I have my Friday routine: breakfast at the Cooked Goose restaurant followed by a little time in front of their fireplace; lunch with mom on her break from work (or an afternoon of golf in the warm weather); and an afternoon cup of coffee at Perks and Corks cafe where I’ll generally do some reading and writing. Read more »