The Kindness of a Cheerful Greeting

"There is no friend like an old friend who has shared our morning days, no greeting like his welcome, no homage to his praise."
~ Oliver Wendell Holmes

I recently was invited to a friend's birthday party.  I wasn't sure if I would be able to attend as I would be returning that day from an out-of-town trip.  We did make it to the party -- albeit late.  And when we arrived, it was such a treat to receive hugs and affectionate greetings from several of my friends whom I don't see frequently.  It made the effort especially worthwhile.