We met in eighth grade. We shared secrets and got into trouble
together. We were best friends throughout high school.
As the years and miles grew between us, our lives grew apart. Stephanie
was killed, a victim of a senseless crime. Years have past
since her death, but I still think of her as full of life. I am proud to have
known her and feel privileged to call her a girlfriend. My regret is that I
allowed time and distance to get in the way and to dilute our friendship.
And now I am reminded that even in our cluttered lives, it is important
to stay close to the women friends who know us and who have shared in our
experiences. Their friendship supports and sustains us in an unpredictable
world.