I believe we all have that person whose life says way more than words ever could. It’s not the things they speak, but it’s just who they are. They’re someone who doesn’t judge or question you, because they just accept and love. They love without the precepts of an interview of such that factors in a question when deciding if a friend is fitting.

This is Joi. She’s a friend I so frickin love dearly without having to hug her daily or even speak to often. Our age gap is a bit significant, but the bond between us is far greater. So great, it surpasses all other barriers that may sustain or break a friendship. There’s so much to her character that is peaceful and sweet, it’s so easy to be drawn to her as her friend. Everyone at my church calls her my twin because a.) our locks of hair and b.) she’s Joi and so am I, (note the play on words) which is exactly what she brings. It’s not the type of joy that’s bold and infectiously loud, but a joy that comes from shy shoulders and a subtle smile between a hug. She’s about as sweet as a sugar cube and chill as ice. Even better is that she listens and sees. Joi will lend her ears for the soft spoken, and sees the outcast. I’ve witnessed Joi’s sweet soul care for the outsiders and her genuine generosity when she gives her time to the wilder kids at church.

The things I have learned from our friendship have been exponential, especially in how I’ve grown into embracing simplicity. She values people and the littler things that can move hearts, which I too value, but I sometimes fail to see where the simple makes an impact. It’s not about being grand and great, but to credit the importance of being present and moving for others quietly and willingly. Joi is a pure example of how even being a soft shadow in the background can speak louder than a profound, boisterous and charitable speaker. A person of any kind matters and is made into a leader or a lesson we all could learn from. Joi is love, kindness and chill vibes wrapped all into one, and she led me to the knowledge of what it means to be a humble and serving friend even in the smallest of ways.