I was reminded once again today that friends are what make life worth living. Many studies have been done to test this theory. One study followed 1,500 older people for 10 years and found those with a larger network of friends outlived those with fewer friends by 22%. Why you may ask? Companionship provided by friends may ward off depression, boost self-esteem and provide support. The study also found that as people age, they are more selective in their choice of friends, so they spend more time with people they like. We tend to gravitate to people with similar interests. Just as a harried mom of preschoolers needs the company of other women in the same boat, older woman tend to enjoy girlfriends with like interests and needs. Spending time with our girlfriends is not a frivolous notion, it is a lifesaver. It is not something that we should try to fit into our busy schedule, it should be a priority that keeps us as healthy as regular visits to the doctor. And when I'm with my girlfriend, I don't have to get on the scale or take my clothes off ~ much better than the doctor!
Amen, sister!
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