Good Friends

I am glad for friends with flaws, not like psychopathic tendencies, larcenous habits, cruel or critical behavior, but flaws that make them empathetic.  It’s good to examine without fear of judgment, not seeking approval, but concern.  Many times I’ve thought, “How could have I have done, said, or acted so badly?  Had I not had someone I could trust, I might have buried that shame, fear, or secret where it would grow like a cancer.  Sharing with a trusted friend gives perspective.  An acknowledged problem is a starting place.

I Am So Sorry, Rosie. (

Please excuse the offensive word used in context in this story.

Rosie was beautiful, the first black woman I ever knew.  She tolerated my stroking her creamy, caramel-colored legs as she washed dishes or ironed. Her crisply starched cotton housedresses smelled just like sunshine.  Normally, I trailed my mother, but on the days Rosie was there, she couldn’t stop suddenly without my bumping her.  Rosie ate standing