Happy New Year!

Wow! Can't believe 2009 is here already. It's been an interesting holiday season for us. On one hand it was very busy, as we were moving to a new office location and doing renovations at home at the same time. On the other hand, it was also quiet as we basically spent the holdays with family and a few close friends.

One of the highlights of my holiday was getting the opportunity to spend time with my old friend from HK. We have been friends for 28 years now, although we haven't seen each other in more than 5 years. He was the one that I blogged about earlier who called me out of the blue in the office one day. Because of work he only comes back to Canada twice a year to see his family for a couple of weeks. The fact that he made it a point to set aside time to meet me speaks volumes on how much he valued our friendship.

Anyways, we went over to have dinner with his family and over a few (too many) glasses of fantastic wine, he shared with me his own life struggles over the last 10 years and encouraged me to keep looking ahead and moving forward. A few nights later, we went out again, this time only the two of us. Over a few (too many) beers, we talked again, for 3 hours. Before hand, he said to me, "After dinner the other night, I realized that I did most of the talking and didn't spend enough time listening to you, so I want to spend another night to just listen." I found out later that prior to coming back to Canada, he spent a month trying to figure out what to say and how to encourage me!

As we parted ways outside the pub, we knew we wouldn't see each other again for a while, as he was flying out the next day. He put his hands on my shoulders like an older brother and said, "Listen. Whatever happens. Whatever you need. Call me." Over the years, I have heard words like that many times. I have said the same to countless others. But coming from my friend, it felt/sounded different...because I knew he really meant it.

One of the most important lessons I have learned over this past year is what real friendship looks like. I learned the difference between being "friendly" and being a "friend". I realize that I don't have many friends. But the ones I do have, they have demonstrated and proven their friendship to me by steadfastly standing by and walking beside me through this most difficult time of my life. To all of them, thank you! I wouldn't be here today if it weren't for you.

So, as we embark on another year, of all the things I can wish for you, I wish that 2009 may be a year where you experience much friendship. Have a wonderful new year, everyone!