Andy & Woody

It is well known and understood that I am passionate about Disney and Pixar movies. I have been looking forward to Toy Story 3 for a long time, and now freshly returned to the States, I was able to see it. Tex warned me that it was emotional, and of course my reaction was "what? Do Buzz Lightyear and Woody die in a fire?" (that was a random question, I didn't cheat).

In the end however resolution came, and the most poignant exchange of friendship was expressed.

I... was beside myself.

I... was silent in my tears.

For all that Tex and I have been through in the past three years, and the relationship pursued and prayed for, there is one aspect that I have never once doubted. And that is that we were best friends. Meant to nurture, challenge, and care for one in another in a capacity we had not yet experienced outside of our relationships with Jesus. I have experienced the joy of that friendship for a long time, and in the span of dating knew that everything after the commitment would put the original friendship at risk. While the context of our relationship continues to be molded and changed by the intentions- and though we are taking a step back, and apart... I know that by actively pursuing truth and Jesus what matters most in this moment is not what we have determined in dating or not, but the friendship at the core.

Sitting in my movie seat I knew that despite all that has happened between us, and all that has been said... I knew that what Andy spoke about Woody in passing him over to Bonnie was true of Andrew and I. In my heart, and through my tears having been so deeply moved by the ending, I wished more then anything that I could lean over and hook my pinkie with Andrew's and be silent having just heard exactly what is known between us, defended before others, and have fiercely fought for.

'Now *Andrew, he's been my pal for as long as I can remember. He's brave, like a cowboy should be. And kind, and smart. But the thing that makes *Andrew special, is he'll never give up on you... ever. He'll be there for you, no matter what."

I am absolutely certain that sentiment is mutual with thanksgiving, with a promise found in the linking of two pinkies to protect the core, rain, shine, hurt and happiness. No matter what.