As I write this note, my dear friend of 32 years is finalizing the details for his move out of state. Dennis Bock has been the Assistant Superintendent of Stoneybrooke Christian Schools since our inception. All along the way, he has worked so faithfully with me and the other members of our school’s leadership team. Our school would not be what it is today if it were not for his incredible investment in the staff, children and families of Stoneybrooke.
But in addition to all the ways the ministry will miss him, his departure is affecting me personally. He is one of my dearest friends on earth. And I am struggling to deal with his loss.
Our culture has a lot to say about “besties” and much of it is pure silliness. We toss around the concept of having a BFF as if it were a minor matter. We tend to treat key friendships as if they were disposable and they are not! An extra smiling face in a “selfie” is not the criteria for a life long friendship
Best friends are committed at a high level to each other. They love at all times (Proverbs 17:17); they are willing to “sharpen another” (Proverbs 27:17); they will always “lift up their fellow friend” (Ecc. 4:9); and they give “earnest counsel” (Proverbs 27:9).
Real best friends are willing to rebuke in love. They cover an offense with love. They encourage and build up. They support with balanced counsel and kindness. Their investment in our lives is immeasurable.
And so today I am already missing my friend.
Maybe this week would be a good time for all of us to check on our friendship list. Let’s make sure there are some best friends in our circle of relationships. Starting of course with your spouse, look and see who your “2 am phone call” friends really are. Who could you call at that time of the night and never hear a word of complaint? Who will be there for you in sickness, in defeat and discouragement? Who will be there to help you celebrate all of life’s great events?
Invest in them. Care for them. Nurture those relationships. You will miss them when they are gone.
Yes, Dennis Bock will be missed by all of us. Great article.
What a great note to Dennis, he will definitely be missed but thank you to social media we will get to keep up with Dennis we love him, he’s most humble man I’ve ever met.. I pray for them their new move the new adventures…Join the Conversation
Can’t believe he and Pam really left! 🙁
We have physically lost a great man, but his legacy remains. Sherry, my prayers are with you as you lost your brother temporarily.Join the Conversation
Standing at one of those intersections of life~the blessings will still be upon you both. Memories of your deep affection and shared duties will certainly be one of them. You are both cherished by so many.
Love this post, Sherry! I have a bestie that has been there for for over 20 years & when she moved to WA I was devastated; but the relationship NEVER changed. We are still as close! Bless you & your friendship with Dennis!
BTW: I’ve got a comp for u to come see Always a Bridesmaid; it is hilarious & I know you’ll laugh a ton. We open in 2 weeks & play for 3 weekends.
So beautifully said and so true!
Well said! Miss him already.
Well said.