Such a nice greeting, don’t you think? And that’s all it is! A greeting. The lesson I have learned again and again is that people, and yes even dear friends, do not want to hear how we are really doing. As we have experienced difficulties in our life friends approach us with serious faces, tipping their heads slightly to one side, arms outstretched………….”how are you folks doing”? We always say with a smile, “just fine, thanks”! Comments throughout the years have been that we are so strong, such determined people, facing adversity with a positive attitude, etc.  Now I look around and know that I do the same thing to others. I don’t have time or energy to hear about someone else’s problems. Just give me the short version of why everything is hunkey dorey! Here are my blessings: I have two friends that really want to know, they listen, and give advice. And they pray for me. What more can I ask? I will remember, this year, to listen to others. I won’t look for the quickest exit when someone actually tells me some of their challenges. I will pray for my friends–seeking God’s guidance and peace for them.