I'm not sure what to say.

I received this email from a friend today:

"First of all, hopefully you know me well enough that even if it comes out sounding clumsy, I mean well. . .

You have never looked better. I don't know if you've gained weight or lost weight (not that you needed to do either). You've changed your hair some, highlights at least, maybe the style too, I don't know. Thirty is probably looming on the horizon for you, but the last few times I've seen you, your face has changed. Like you've embraced womanhood or something. Like I can see what you'll look like in your 40s, 50s, 60s. NOT that you've aged, I certainly don't mean that. And not that you're frumpy or matronly or dated. Like you're a Wife and Mother, with capitals. Not like how some women lose themselves, but like you're secure and happy in your role. It is a very high calling, if you do it right. A glow, a radiance.

Anyway, I really do mean it as a compliment!"

I read it and then I read it again. It kind of took my breath away. How do you respond to something like that? This friend is someone I have worked with in a group I volunteer with. She had drifted away for a while and came back to one of our events last night. It was a joy to see her and I was so glad that she is getting involved again. I wasn't expecting her email today.

So I sat here trying to think of an answer to her questions. What have I done? What has changed?

Could it be the passage of time and becoming more comfortable with myself?

Could it be my total consuming love for my husband and kids?

Could it be the hair???

To be honest, I'm not really sure. I think it's probably a mixture of all those things. The truth is, I just don't think about why I am confidant and what makes me strong. It's just the way I am, and I don't mean that in a fly-in-your-face sort of way. And just to clairfy, I'm already on the other side of 30.

I am so grateful to my beautiful friend for taking a moment to share her thoughts with me. It made my whole day. I am reminded of 'Lilly and the Purple Plastic Purse.' Wow. That's all I have to say about that.

I am blessed. Thank you my dear friend. You made me smile.