One of the most amazing and enjoyable parts of Women of Faith is that we really love each other and love hanging out together. Most of us have known one another for years and, as in any relationship, we’ve had our ups and downs, ins and outs, highs and lows. But, through it all, we absolutely love being together―whether it’s at a Women of Faith event, a casual meeting, a spontaneous cup of coffee, a formal meeting, in the gate area at any airport anywhere or at a PHOTO SHOOT.

The latter is where we found ourselves this week. We’re all getting very excited about next year and some soon to be announced NEW and wonderful plans for Women of Faith! This week we took individual head shots for the printed materials and some fun interactive spots with various ‘groupings’ of those on the porch.

It was SO MUCH FUN. And here’s what I loved the most: the utter encouragement that was flowing so freely from everyone to everyone. What woman do you know loves to stand in front of a camera with about 20 onlookers? No one! What woman do you know who loves to be fitted for clothing she didn’t choose by someone who has ‘guessed’ her size and what she would look good wearing? No one!

We had a hairdresser, a makeup artist, a clothing consultant. “Wear this!” “Do that.” “Let’s do this to your hair.” “Is THAT the way you want your makeup to look!?!” All the while, fifteen of your closest friends are standing around voting. “That looks GREAT.” Or “I like it but I don’t LOVE it.”

All that to say, it can all be so intimidating and daunting. Everybody looking at you; you trying to look your best. Everybody being encouraging; you wondering if they’re really, really telling you the truth. But we had a ball. We laughed till we cried our makeup off. We cheered for one another as if each person in the shot looked like a movie star.

And isn’t that what friendship is for? It “…accepts all things. It always trusts, always hopes, and always remains strong.” (1 Corinthians 13:7 NCV)

Whenever you find yourself in your circle of friends, take it upon yourself to be the encourager they need. I can promise you they (or someone) will return the favor. “Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing.” (Luke 6:38 MSG)

Tell your friend today how much you appreciate her . . . and take a few pictures, just for the fun of it!