We were just young women. Fresh out of college. Out in the world of our first jobs. My friend and I had a standing joke — “I know we’re friends, because you could receive flowers at work, and I’d be like actually happy for you.”  We’d laugh, but it wasn’t that far from the truth. We’d see other women get flowers for the occasional holiday or birthday, and we’d roll our eyes and give the half smile and nod. Maybe we were just too young. Or maybe it was because those same people worried about if we took five extra minutes for lunch, or laughed a little too long in the hallway. It seemed to be a culture of if you get something, that takes something away from me. 

I suppose it was maturing, or working on my own, but I did seem to grow out of it. Thankfully. I rarely give it a thought now — this who has what. Probably because in those extra long laughs, the loves around me, around me still, I know I have everything. 

Walking through the park yesterday, I stumbled upon two different weddings. They were taking photos beside the lake, within all the greenery, amid the wild flowers and under the yellow sun. My first thought was, what a lovely day for them. They were all smiling, and I couldn’t stop smiling. I didn’t know any of these people, but I laughed out loud when I thought, “I’m like actually happy for you.” 

It’s a good reminder to myself. I hope I’m always doing, but I’m not sure. And shouldn’t we be? Happy for each other? All of us? Not just on special days, but every day. 

I hope this day brings you something special. Flowers even! And if I see you, mid-bloom, I’ll be smiling.