A Measure of Friendship

So, what are you making for dinner tonight?

I used to think that the closeness of women could be measured by their sharing of worries or ambitions or secrets. Or supporting each other during times of crisis. These do occur among friends. However, we’ve all read stories about people rescuing strangers during a flood or dropping groceries on a stranger’s doorstep. And people have said they couldn’t believe that the person beside them on a plane told them about their abusive marriage. However, only those closest to me have asked, “So, what are you making for dinner tonight?”

Along the way, I learned that the closest of friends discuss the mundane.

The children spilled a drink in the back seat.

I took seven bags to the thrift store yesterday.

The strap on my sandal broke.

Let me tell you about my crazy dream.

I gained back nine pounds.

Have you bought your Thanksgiving turkey?

Are your daffodils blooming?

I have heard or said all the above—but none with strangers.