By: Elaine Kempski
Founder, Certified Coach and Inspirational
Speaker/Writer

Friendship enriches our lives on many levels – it helps us become better people, parents, leaders, family members, and neighbors. My women friends and I often talk about how fortunate we feel to have one another. We have seen each other through countless challenges, including: sudden job loss, death of a loved one, divorce, family/relationship issues, physical illness, and financial difficulties. Through all of life’s ups and downs – both the tears and laughter – we have stood by one another.

Whenever I ask women what has made the biggest difference in their lives, they often reply: “My women friends of course!” That’s because our friends give us hope, encouragement, and comfort in times of uncertainty. They remind us of our goodness, significance and beauty when we cannot feel these within ourselves.  They lend us their strength and courage when the odds seem stacked against us.

Our women friends also nurture, challenge, and help us heal in ways we may not fully realize at the time. This is why it is important to step back periodically and recognize our life-affirming bond.  Each year before the holidays, I reflect upon the women who have blessed my journey with their wisdom, generosity, love, and support.  This instantly fills my heart with joy and gratitude – connecting me with the true spirit of the holidays. A gift in and of itself!

How can women acknowledge their deep connection? Take time to reflect upon each woman who has enriched your life’s journey.  Breathe deeply and connect with your heart as you answer the following questions:

1. What am I most grateful to my woman friend for?

2. What positive quality in myself did she help me embrace?

3. Based on what I learned from her, who have I made a difference for?

As you reflect, focus on the joy and gratitude within your heart. Allow this activity to help you clarify the significance of each relationship as it nurtures your vibrant spirit.

What can women do to celebrate their special friendships? With the insights from this reflection, you can more clearly convey what is in your heart. You may choose to express your appreciation through a beautiful card, personal get-together, surprise phone call. or some creative gesture.  The most memorable gifts are sentimental in nature so follow your heart’s lead.

Additionally, join us on Dec. 15th for a special event: “Celebrating the Gift of Friendship.”

This heart-felt evening is designed for two women to acknowledge their treasured relationship. It makes a wonderful holiday gift – one you will fondly remember.  View our Upcoming Events page for more details!
Our women friends are truly priceless. Whether they are in our lives for a moment, season or lifetime, they have undoubtedly enriched our journey. During the holidays, be sure to appreciate the cherished women in your life.  Remember: By expressing what is deep within our hearts, we honor the loving light in one another. This is the true essence of friendship.

Let’s close with an excerpt from a poem I wrote for my best friend:

What a gift to know you and be known by you

The depth of each
other’s fears

The purity of each
other’s hearts

The height of each
other’s dreams

The essence of each
other’s souls

How grateful and blessed am I

For the opportunity to
witness your amazing
journey

For the privilege of seeing
you shine

For the gift of your
friendship

For the honor of calling
you “My Sister”

Start your journey today by visiting our Upcoming Events page at:  www.InnerJourneyCoaching.com.  Also, sign up for our FREE Monthly Newsletter (Home page) designed to inspire a woman’s soul.

Elaine Kempski is founder of Inner Journey Coaching, an organization dedicated to helping women discover, empower, and transform themselves throughout their lifetime. For over 24 years, Elaine has been supporting women of all ages to live the most remarkable truth:  “When women begin to focus on, listen to and fully honor themselves, miraculous things happen!” As women live boldly from this truth, their sense of self, peace of mind, view of what is possible and overall well-being greatly improve. It is the most precious gift a woman can give herself – one that Elaine welcomes all women to experience through her Powerful Keynotes, Public/Group Events, Leadership Programs and Personalized Coaching Services.

Testimonials:
“Elaine has been an inspiration! She has helped me journey through significant life-changing events, supporting me to sort through and seek positive outcomes by connecting with my inner power. I feel so strongly about the healing power that she has helped me to harness that I have introduced other women to Elaine and her services.”
~ Peggy Behm

“Elaine is one of the most brilliant and amazing women I have ever met.  She is gifted in coaching, teaching and speaking in ways that I have rarely experienced. Her presence can literally transform a room. To work with Elaine is an honor and just knowing her has transformed my life!”
~ Chris Sopa

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