Friends

Friends come in a lot of different places. Most people look to their local friends for support and a shoulder to lean on in times of need. Since joining NACWE I’ve made friends but, more importantly, built deep relationships with women across the country. When I joined NACWE I expected to find Christian support, education and networking for my business but I didn’t expect to find the deep friendships that I’ve developed in the short time I’ve been a member.

Anyone who knows me, heck, anyone who has talked to me or passed briefly by one of my social network pages knows that I have dogs and my dogs are a very integral part of my life. I talk about my fur-babies like most people talk about their children. Over the past month or so I’ve dealt with some scary, stressful, tear jerking situations with my oldest dog, Panda. Three times I was worried that I was going to lose her, two I had completely prepared to say my final goodbyes. To say it was a rough time is an understatement.

During the time I was dealing with Panda’s illness and everything that went along with it I craved people to talk with, people who would listen, people who would show me they care and understand how important my dogs are to me. I found that group of people in NACWE. A group of women surrounded me with prayer, listened when I needed to vent or just talk. These women showed me that miles don’t make friends, people make friends.

I could share stories of any of the women that supported me but one who stands out is Tandi Brayson-Foster. I first met Tandi through Diane, Tandi sells PartyLite candles and I’m a candle addict. Tandi had an event and since we live about 45 minutes apart she invited me to come. Immediately I felt a connection, not only are we sisters in Christ but she is a genuinely caring person.

When Panda was first hospitalized she called and sent texts to check on me. When she heard the sadness I was dealing with she invited me to her house to talk. She listened, she showed she cared and she just wanted to support me. Leaving her house that night I knew I’d made a friend for life. The first day I thought I was going to lose Panda Tandi called to check on me and let me know she was there for me. I know, you’re probably thinking “my friends do that” but remember, I’d only been introduced to Tandi a couple weeks prior. Through the entire ordeal Tandi text me and called me to get status updates and make sure I was ok. The day Panda came home she was one of the first people I told because I knew she genuinely cared.

NACWE has given me a lot of things. I’ve found encouragement in my business. I’ve found support and education through the groups offered. I’ve found women who support and encourage me in life. I’ve found women who offer services that make my business grow. But the thing I praise God most for, the reason I’m proud to be a member of this amazing group are the people. The friendships and deep relationships I’ve built with the women I’ve met make this the organization that I’m proud to be a member of.

And, now it’s Tandi’s turn to come across the border for some sweet potato fries, laughter and just plain friend time.

Lanel Taylor, 10-year business veteran and creator of the Success Solutions programs utilizes her decade of experiences as an entrepreneur to help other small business owners succeed in their businesses. Lanel teaches a back-to–the-basics approach for getting your business in order so you have the foundation in place to succeed. From there we work to move your business above and beyond so you can find your personal Success Solution. To see more Top 10 Lists visit the blog on my website www.laneltaylor.com and subscribe to the Birthday Bash Goodie Bag