She leans in close; wise friend wants to hear my heart. She never tires of the tears, the pain, the mention of his name. She holds long and tight as if she understands there is unspoken healing in such an embrace.
Wise friend is a busy one, but, like Jesus, she refuses to place agenda over brokenness.  I walk away a little lighter, leaving a piece of my grief each time we meet. 
She places no demands, offers no advice, only tenders herself and I know God has graced me with a rare gift. And I am grateful...