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by Linda Rodgers
I believe as we journey here on earth, we will have friends who will enrich our lives placing them in the memory box of our mind for years to come.
However, I want to share about a very special type of friend that I call a Safe Friend. This person is someone who will accept you no matter what. They not only hear your heart’s secrets but keep it confidential.
God made women very relational and because of that, we love to share. The danger is that we often become unwise with what and whom we share. There is a tendency to spiritually-coat it and pass it on by tacking on a sentence that ‘we should pray about it.’
In my personal experiences, when my world became unglued, I began a journey to define what a Safe Friend was. I knew they would truly hear my heart. I have been blessed to have more than one. Some came into my life for a short time while others will be with me for the long haul.
I feel there are three qualities of a Safe Friend.
- CONSTANT
It is a characteristic that screams ‘true blue’. They are a person who is faithfully dedicated. They are like the tick talk of the clock. It is their passion. It might be sharing a scripture verse, reaching for a box of tissue, or a tight hug. It is an open heart to and from each other. For me sometimes it was hearing the voice on the other end of the phone line asking how I was for I knew they meant it.
- CONSISTENT
What they say they do! They believe in keeping promises unless there is an unforeseen circumstance. They are a person that can be counted on. Honesty and concern define them. They cry, laugh, and pray with and for you. For me, this bond of friendship has gripped my heart and began healing like no other.
- CONFIDENTIAL
This is where the ‘rubber hits the road’. Unless it is a safety issue, nothing will be shared. What they hear they bathe in prayer. A person with this calibre will respect and honour the situation.
I have had the privilege of these people in my life. First and foremost, Jesus Christ has been my greatest Safe Friend. When I have said to Him that “I can’t do it” He calmly says, “I will never leave you or forsake you”.
In our culture, schedules are re-worked again and again. So when someone invests in your life as a Safe Friend it is a gift. When you, yourself, become a Safe Friend it is an emotional and time investment in your life.
Have you had this privilege of having a friend like this? Are you willing to be a “Safe Friend” to help carry someone who trusts you and needs you?
You will be blessed either way!
~Linda was born into and raised in a loving Christian home and accepted Christ at an early age. Along with a theology degree she has worked in various Christian and secular organizations in a variety of secretarial and administrative roles. She loves to camp, read, and make memories with her two daughters, and of course loves chocolate! She juggles being a single mom and working full-time. Her passion is to help women to achieve all they can be admist the pain and loss in life.
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