god is a refuge for us

"The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, but the God of Isreal is he that giveth strength and power unto his people...God is a refuge for us."

Abigail wrote this to John after hearing gunshots and cannon fire for days and days. Abigail felt anxious and restless about the future for the colonies, for she knew that war was not far ahead. This quote means the world to me as I see the sufferings of those all over the world, including those I know, and within myself. Abigail knew that God would give whosoever needed strength, strength. The knowledge that God protects his children who are in difficult circumstances is a solace to me. God is watching over everyone and giving them the strength to get through. Abigail's knowledge of this truth reminded me that I must turn to God for strength when I am at a loss.

no dearer name than friend

In October 1782 Abigail wrote to her husband,

"Is there a dearer name than Friend; Think of it for me."

This has been one of my favorite quotes for a long time, which is why I chose a variation of it for my blog title. Abigail used the words "Dearest friend" in adoration towards her husband, but I consider my close friends dear to me as well. And what Abigail said has a special meaning to me. The word friend doesn't just represent a person, but trust, loyalty, love, joy, comfort, and much more. There isn't a word that brings more solace to the soul than friend. The support friends give is irreplaceable. And support from my friends is dear to me, because that is what gets me through tough times in my life. A friend is more than just a confidant, they are the foundation in my life. I love my friends because they help me stand strong when life is hard and bring me so much joy. Abigail's simple statement in a letter made me realize how much my friends do for me, and the true meaning of friendship, something that is often forgotten. When I read the above quote for the first time, I realized that there is, in fact, no dearer name than friend.