GINA 

The more time I spend on this planet, the greater my admiration for people like Gina. This woman isn’t afraid to tell it like it is. There is no sugar-coating, no white lies to spare someone’s feelings. You get the straight deal from her. 

I am not like this. I never want to upset anyone, and so I have a hard time telling the whole truth. I avoid topics, minimize my disapproval and keep mum if what I really think would make someone feel bad.  In other words, I’m a coward.

After getting to know Gina I saw how her directness was actually better, not just for her but for the other person. No one benefits from being agreed with out of pity. Even if the harsh truth stings a bit, it’s best to hear it rather than to falsely believe your crazy notions are on the mark, or that you don’t look fat in that dress. Of course there are people that can’t handle this. They want to believe the lies. But here again, the directness helps. Those people won’t want a straight-shooter as a friend. Those that do are the type that make up Gina’s closest friends.

All this speaks to Gina’s tremendous courage. She’s bold and vibrant. This is a person who knows herself. And you know exactly how she feels. You can trust it’s the truth because she doesn’t pull punches. I can’t think of a better definition of true friendship that someone who is brave enough to be forthright with you. You know they respect, admire, and value you enough to give it to you straight. That’s a friendship that can withstand time. That’s Gina.  I hope to take a page out of her book and put that kind of tremendous trust in my friends. They can handle the truth. 

There is so much else to admire about her: determination, wicked sense of humor, fun in just about any situation, amazing soccer skills, the list goes on. But that courageous directness is the standout for me, because I’m so jealous of it. I hope she knows what a gift that is, and that she’s never afraid to flaunt it.

Happy Birthday Wonderful You.