By Tammy Thornton
Living so close to the beach, one is always hosting houseguests. This past weekend, my college friends who haven’t been to the Jersey Shore in 26 years, came to visit. Much has changed since they stood by my side, as I became one with my groom. Since then, we’ve all been seasoned by the successes and disappointments of life—and a few devastating losses. This year I needed some refreshing. We all agreed it’s been way too long.
For some, the thought of houseguests brings a feeling of dread and inconvenience. Yes, there are more towels and bedding to wash, maybe a little extra cleaning. (In my case a lot). But there’s something about allowing someone into your home that is very intimate. Perhaps that’s why some want to avoid it. When you allow someone behind your closed doors, it gets real. No more secrets. They see your crazy kids in their natural state, your naughty dog that steals their stuff, and your dirty laundry is exposed. But when you let your real friends in, none of that matters. True friends who are part of your history know your past, remember you in your foolish youth, and love you anyway. Those are the kind of friends that I want entering my home, and those are the friends that came this weekend.
We were able to stay up late laughing about old boyfriends, shared experiences, and lives with twists and turns we never could have imagined. This deep time together wouldn’t have been as rich if they hadn’t stayed overnight.
Of course, taking time off from your busy schedule, with your feet in the sand while waves are crashing nearby isn’t so bad either. Many productive discussions can occur from the comfort of your beach chair.
So embrace the opportunity of hosting houseguests. It provides special time to know your friends on a deeper level. Like a hidden gem, it’s value might not be realized at first. But if you have true friends, with whom you can be vulnerable, you are blessed and very rich indeed.
Tammy Thornton is a mom of four, a substitute teacher, and a Sunday school teacher. She is passionate about gardening and cooking, and loves the beach.
