Dooley Noted: 2/8/2015
Yesterday, I watched my best friend get married.
Most people aren’t lucky enough to have someone by their side since childhood.
But Jill and I have been friends for 35 years.
We made the tiny world of Haubstadt, Indiana, our playground. Our creativity never ceased.
We played. We laughed.
And ultimately, we supported each other.
Jill is gorgeous, kind, smart, and funny. So suitors always find her. But I’ve seen Jill very unhappy in relationships.
I listened and empathized.
But I never let her give up hope that she would be happy again one day.
In hard times, we often echoed each other.
“Hold on. You will be happy. You will get what you need.”
I wanted that more for her than I wanted anything for myself. It’s the unconditional love felt in a friendship of that length.
Yesterday, I watched as she married the best man I’ve seen walk with her in this life.
I knew as soon as I met him that they would marry.
He’s the man I always envisioned for her.
His warmth for her is unparalleled.
His respect and love for her friends is apparent.
He is someone that not only sees the beauty in my best friend. He appreciates her infectious laugh and immense sense of humor.
He will take great care of my best friend, with concern for their mutual happiness.
I’m so proud I was there the day they officially started the journey.
Readers, I hope you never give up on your pursuit of happiness.
If you choose a partner, I hope you make ultimate efforts to see you’re both content.
I’m so glad Jill waited for Israel.
And if you haven’t found your partner, I hope you never settle for less than what Jill and Israel have.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley
