The sun beamed down on me; I was grateful for my hat. I gently lifted the lily. It brought friends from its yard of origin: There was grass, soil and an earthworm or two. I dug a hole in the orange red clay, loosened the roots and watered my new transplant. Suddenly, I had an “aha” moment. The plant needed existing roots to survive a new environment, just like me and my move to Georgia!

In the last week, I reached out to old friends via computer, phone and mail. It grounded me and lifted my spirits. I draw strength from these connections and shared experiences. There is a deep, intuitive comfort in being known. When I work from a grounded emotional state, it is easier to reach out and take risks in my new place. I may not see my old friends as often, but they are vital parts of my life and heart. Those who are such bright lights for me now were once wholly unknown to me, and this fact is a great encouragement.

The number of friends in your life is unimportant. The type of connection is crucial. The friends who really see you, who challenge you, who truly want your highest good…These are the soul friends, or anam cara in our lives. As John O’Donohue wrote, “The deepest things that you need are not elsewhere. They are here and now in that circle of your own soul. Real friendship and holiness enable a person to frequently visit the hearth of his solitude.” So this week, try to root down into those close friends, draw strength from that holy place, and shine your light wherever you are planted. The world needs your light. Be well.