Wednesday, August 17, 2011

An Above and Beyond Friendship - August 2011

Meghan Delaney and Ashley Nowling, Buddy Pair from the Westfield High School chapter, have the kind of friendship that we are all seeking. Meghan and Ashley share in all the usual activities that friends do while in high school: they attend basketball games together, spend time with their families, go to the movies, and occasionally go for a slice of pizza.  However, Meghan and Ashley have taken their friendship a step deeper.  They have taken the time to learn about their individual lives. Ashley has learned about Meghan’s gluten free diet and has adjusted to getting their occasional slice of pizza at places that offer gluten free options, so they are both able to enjoy. Their families have gotten to know each other and they often celebrate birthdays together. They are going above and beyond just “meeting the commitment”. Meghan and Ashley are living the commitment.

Ashley and Meghan at Leadership Conference
 Ashley recently reflected on how her life has changed as a result of being paired with Meghan:
“My friendship with Meghan Delaney is one of a kind. She is one in a million and my love has grown so much for her over the previous year. She has made my passion for Special Education grow immense amounts. Spending time with her is always so much fun. Her attitude and smile brightens up my day. We have such a strong bond that will go on to last a very long time. I have grown close with her family and vice versa. Being involved with Best Buddies has opened my eyes to a whole new world, and I have Meg to think for that”.