Little Darlin', Pal of Mine

Not only is that a remarkable song by Doc Watson (and Lucinda Williams and many others), it's the anthem I shout about my wonderful friends.

How I love these folks who stick by my side and want me to stick by their side (some for decades) through so many trials and pleasures, who make the time and expend the energy, who call knowing I will answer (and answer my calls even in the wee-hours), who listen and really hear, who spill, who talk about nothing or something, who debate and share, who let loose and judge, who aren't afraid to expose all of the fabulousness and ugliness that makes us who we are.

I think you know who you are, and you are little darlins' and pals of mine.