In the wake of some tough times, I’m finally resurfacing. I describe it all like a hurricane: the storm came through, I evacuated, and now I’m returning back to my life to survey the damage and see what can be salvaged.

I don’t know much about what brought me here or what exactly I’ll do now. However, one thing I know for certain: I have the best friends in the whole wide world.

In the last week or so, I’ve had friends take me in, feed me, pray for me, hug me, and love me back to life. In one particular act of compassion, a dear friend of mine spent her anniversary night sleeping on the floor next to me because I was too weak to get up from the couch. Before I drifted off into sleep, I thought, Now, that’s real love.

Human beings are amazing. Our capacity to heal each other is nothing short of divine.

What’s even better is that it’s not just humans who do this. I recently caught this short segment on CBS the other day, and it warmed my heart so much that I had to share it with you. Friendships and community are the bonds that mend broken hearts. That healing is for all of us — you, me and even the elephants…

For more, read these Beliefnet features:
How to Support Friends After a Breakup
How to Bring Food to Grieving Friends
21 Tips for Staying Strong and Carrying On