Every writer dreams of discovering a new treasure chest full of writing prompts. Today, I realized that I have one right at my fingertips, when I clicked on my Facebook "friends."

With every friend, I thought of a place and usually a story or event that I associate with each person. Each one also reminds me of at least one unique characteristic or value. As I went down my list, I began to remember my own journey, and I realized once again what a blessing friends have been in my life.

Each one of my friends represents a gift from God to me. And I know that I should not take the relationships I've had with any of these precious people for granted. My friends have taught me more about myself and my world. And they have helped to transform me into the person I am today.

I've walked through some fairly difficult times with some of my friends. And with others, I've experienced some of my most valued moments in life. Maybe they attended elementary school or junior high with me, or we graduated from high school together. Perhaps they witnessed my wedding, or they waited patiently for the birth of one of my children or grandchildren. Some supported me through the death my parents. Others helped me pack, when I moved away from them. They studied with me as a non-traditional college student, or they encouraged me before I taught my first writing classes.

I've discovered some of my most recent friendships with other writers. We've shared our dreams and visions, and we've prayed for each other as we pitched those ideas to publishers at writing conferences. Some of my newest friends even patiently listened to those pitches, and then gave me direction and new insight into the world of Christian publishing.

I'm thankful for the friends who inspired this writing prompt idea today. I hope and pray it will help others begin to write down their stories. Keep writing!