I have accumulated many good stories so far from my travels this weekend. The "you made our day" comment in Tim Horton's, the little Italian man that reminded me of the contractor in Under the Tuscan Sun, the old colleague who came specifically to hear my presentation, the thirtieth birthday party (complete with costumes).
What drew my attention the most, and it has done it before, was the fact that a good conversation in any relationship truly needs presence. Otherwise you miss the normal events in everyday life, the long pause before spilling a difficult story, the opportunity to pass a tissue or give a hug. Better put, relationships require intimacy; itimacy in an encompassing sort of way. Not just physical intimacy, or spatial or emotional. Obviously other things too: trust, commitment, respect; but relationships require closeness.
I'm so happy you're here.
It's been a long time since I've had you near my dear.
Come on inside get away from the cold wind that's blowin.
Gonna let you know, that I'm so glad you're here.
I worried about ya, I'm so glad you're here.
After all we've been through, I'm so glad you're here.
It's good to see ya baby, I'm so glad you're here.
~Macy Gray, Glad You're Here