"Iron sharpens iron, and one person sharpens the wits of another." (Prov. 27:17 NRSV)

When my husband and I moved to a new city over a year ago, it was hard for me to leave my friends. Many years of shared joys and tribulations had made us a close-knit group. In particular, I appreciate my friends' loyalty and support while convalescing from burnout and depression.

Making friends in an unfamiliar city hasn't been easy: I have made some acquaintances in church and in our apartment building, but our initial interactions haven't blossomed into anything more substantial. Being unable to lay social foundations has negatively affected my ability to acclimatize to my new environment. I have felt socially isolated, leaving me with regret at having made the decision to move.

Three weeks ago, I started group counselling for depression, where I was delightfully surprised to find the other participants eager to make their acquaintance with me.

In a pleasant turn of events, I now go for a weekly coffee with some of the ladies in my therapy group. Their knowledge of the city and their willingness to show me its cultural highlights have positively influenced my attitude about living here. In turn, they enjoy picking up makeup tips from me, based on my experience as a freelance makeup and special effects artist.

I am grateful to God for the fresh perspectives of the city that my new acquaintances give me. Most importantly, I consider myself blessed not only to have my dear, lifelong friends but also to have the opportunity to make new friendships.

Is there anyone that you know of -- an elderly neighbour, a colleague or even someone at church -- who needs someone to talk to, or even a friendly word spoken to them? Ask God to show you how you can reach out to them today. Your efforts will be a gateway through which God's love can flow into their lives and will give you a fresh, new perspective on your own life.

Prayer: Merciful Father, thank You that You have created us to enjoy fellowship with You and our fellow man. We are grateful for the fresh perspective that a new acquaintance brings into our lives. Amen.

Madeline Twooney
Bochum, Germany

Reprinted from the PresbyCan Daily Devotional with the author's permission