As I grow older, I realize what a treasure I have in a special group of people. My brothers and cousins, my childhood friends, my deceased parents’ friends, who have known me since I was born. These folks know me in ways that even my best friends of more recent years never can. Some of them supply stories of my infant days that would otherwise be hidden from me. Others help me remember events and people long gone. Their memories support mine in affirming my identity, reassuring me, and confirming the meaning I have made of my life so far. These are the people I first seek out in times of trouble as well as times of celebration.
So I understand what the psalmist says. Who better can I trust than the God who has known me from my birth? God loves me and knows me more deeply than even these precious friends and family. In this assurance, I find strength for the journey. And my heart is full of praise.
Lord, I have come to know you through the love of family and friends. You have known me forever. Help me always to turn to you, in joy and in sorrow, knowing that you are the very ground and goal of my life. Amen. — SRN