Friendship in Black and White

Friendship in Black and white

The scene is not in the least extraordinary. Just a couple of ladies, about the same age, having coffee. They are dressed similarly: dangly silver earrings, stylish jackets, Danskos™. One has an iced drink, the other a hot one. One has her handbag by her feet; the other’s hangs from the back of her chair.

They are so similar in manner and style that if I were to guess, I’d say they are colleagues. But they are more than co-workers. They are friends too. They lean in as they talk, familiar and comfortable with each other.

Soon they are joined by a third. They stand in turn and welcome her with hugs and greetings. They share inside jokes and “remember whens” that make the three of them laugh as they settle back around their table.

They catch up. They talk shop. And they laugh. They laugh so much that they turn to apologize to me for the racket they are making.

But indeed, it is my pleasure to be interrupted by the sounds of their fellowship. You see, the friendship of these women, one Caucasian and first one and then two African Americans, could not have happened without the sacrifices of so many who have gone before them. A generation ago, this scene–so common now as to be virtually invisible–would have been unusual, odd, suspect even.

Today, it’s just three friends having coffee. Thanks be to God.

(I introduced myself to these women and found out that they are indeed coworkers, teachers atNew City Christian School. Check out their website. What they are doing is uncommonly spectacular!)

By Aileen MItchell Lawrimore

Aileen Mitchell Lawrimore is a mother x 3, wife x 35 (years not men), minister, speaker, writer, retreat leader, and lover of beagles and books. She has a lot to say.