carabiner

I dig carabiners. They come in fun colors, weird shapes, and various strengths. But most importantly, their function gives them great purpose regardless of one's rock climbing skill. A carabiner clips onto an object to connect it to a foundation, keep the object from being lost, or link objects together. Best of all, once linked, one has to be intentional about removing the said object from the carabiner. A carabiner just snaps into place and will remain there steady and formidable, taking on stresses and also hanging loosely when not being used.

A friendship has similar qualities of a carabiner. Once people are connected, it takes great force to completely sever the relationship. Two of my roommates from college came to visit me in NC on their road trip home from Maine to California- I was on the way. Despite the fact we have talked only sporadically over the last two years, we are still linked without appeal. When we finally reunited last night, new and old stories flooded the conversation table. The carabiner of our friendship has been lasting and steadfast allowing us to pick up where we left off. Plus, the carabiner has attached us with an extra safety hold of joy and laughter we share. I have confidence this simple tool will continue to link and bind us throughout the years and bring us back together.