Sveta and Armen are my first and best friends in Southern California. When I first met Sveta, she had been in the U.S. for only days, and I was pretty new to California, myself. Despite the fact that we live two hours away from each other, we have supported each other emotionally through our doctoral-seeking process.
Although I have other friends, there is a spiritual connection I feel with Sveta and Armen that is somehow communicated through the 'Grateful' statue. I love it, because it is how I see Sveta and because it reflects the gratitude I feel for their friendship.
They share depth, caring, intelligence, and maturity that one does not always find in a friend. This is one of many reasons why I value their friendship.
My friend of 21 years was diagnosed with terminal cancer in December 2010, and now has been told she has only weeks to live, it was her birthday and i struggled to find a present--what do you buy a friend who does not have long to live? Everything seemed insignificant. I have several Willow tree ornaments, and decided the one which showed how grateful i was for our friendship was perfect, i also bought her 11 year old daughter the 'Guardian Angel' one. That way her daughter can keep them in memory of her mum. Willow Tree ornaments speak a thousand words!!
My best friend moved and when I saw this it showed all my feelings for her. How much I miss her, how I enjoyed always being with her, the memories we share, all in one simple figurine. How beautiful. How sweet friendship is.