Nothing brings a smile to my face quite like hearing, “I’m sending you a picture.” Those are my six favorite words from the wonderful people in my life. We all hope to have friends who offer last-minute childcare, lend us outfits for special events, or provide a comforting shoulder during tough times. Over the years, I’ve made it a point to seek out these types of people. I’ve discovered that kindness is abundant if you’re willing to look for it. These friends bring a sense of security to my life, making the roles of mom, wife, sister, daughter, and writer feel just a little lighter.
However, what truly lifts my spirits are the friends who come across the most bizarre things and immediately think of me. I’m fortunate to be married to someone who roams the streets of New York City, snapping quirky photos between meetings. His collection includes everything from life-sized stuffed animals in store windows to individuals dressed in what looks like everyday cosplay and dogs sporting S&M outfits.
I feel incredibly lucky that my friends do the same. Over the years, I’ve received a selfie from a friend donning a thick bleach mustache and a turban for her birthday, another dressed as Carmen Sandiego for a discreet mission, and a postcard featuring an elderly man humorously scolding his grandchild, not to mention countless images of animals caught in the act of defiance in public settings.
Just recently, a friend called me up and said, “Hold on. I’m sending you a picture.” This excitement never fails to thrill me because she often finds the most amusing treasures while trolling estate sales. I wondered if she had discovered a vintage typewriter, or perhaps a cheeky tin sign. Instead, my screen lit up with a photo of a box filled with 1920s rectal dilators. While rummaging through someone’s basement, she had picked up one of the oddly-shaped items before noticing the lid with a description of its contents on the opposite side of the table. The image of her dropping it in shock had me in stitches, especially knowing she immediately snapped a photo for me.
Sometimes, there’s an amusing backstory behind these photos, while other times they arrive as spontaneous texts with no context at all. This unpredictability means I always have to keep my phone away from my kids, but it’s a small sacrifice to protect my most prized gadget for these delightful surprises.
These little joys have become incredibly important to me. Life is often overwhelming, filled with stress, responsibilities, and an endless stream of negative news. Between family chaos, relentless headlines, and even the occasional pushy salesperson, the weight of it all can feel unbearable. Just when I think I’m drowning, my pocket vibrates.
Suddenly, a quirky photo from a friend who understands my sense of humor pops up, and I can’t help but laugh. That moment of joy sweeps away the heaviness of the day, offering a brief escape. I feel immensely grateful that my friends know how much I value these little messages—they mean more to me than soup when I’m under the weather or advice when I’m feeling lost.
I can only hope to keep these amazing friends in my life, those who send unexpected bursts of joy right to my pocket before I even realize I need them.
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Summary
In a world filled with responsibilities and stress, finding joy in the little things is essential. Friends who share quirky images and humorous moments can lighten our burdens and bring laughter into our lives. By appreciating these unexpected bursts of joy, we cultivate a supportive network that helps us navigate the challenges of motherhood and beyond.