Below is a statue I discovered in Liberty Park in Salt Lake City. It depicts a young man lifting his friend to higher ground. They are connected by holding on to each others arms. It is difficult to see the delineation between their two arms. It is as if they have joined and melded together, There is no separation. They are unified, and they are one.
It is a blessing when friendships like this can be formed here in mortality. These friendships give us insight on the type of relationship we need to have with our Savior. Christ uses the example of a living "vine" to describe himself in John 15:1 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman." This description suggests that we should have a living connection to the Him. A living connection implies you are in contact with Him. You hear from and listen to Him. He is a part of you and an active part of your life and growth.
A friend of mine stated, "How each of us received contact with God, how we hear His voice, and what gifts we possess are unique. There is no single, universal way for one to hear His voice and know that He is. And so it is a mistake to ignore your own unique talent for "hearing" your Father in Heaven. He did not send you here powerless to hear Him. But it will require you to develop the capacity. Relying merely upon your "feeling" or "emotions" alone is insufficient; you must learn to hear His voice."
Sidenote:
Here is another quote about the importance of friendship from a blog that I think is worth reading: Weeping for Zion
"One thing I am eternally grateful for is friendship. Having others around me, to lift me up when things get hard or to share in the best moments of this wonderful life is a precious gift that we should always try to nurture. Those who connect like this often feel like there is a tangible feeling of ‘oneness’ that is invaluable for both and all parties."
The author of the blog is currently expounding on the Book of John. He is currently on chapter 15.
"This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
Greater love hath no man this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
These things I command you, that ye love one another."
John 15: 12-17
John 15: 12-17
