In short we celebrated so much it looked like we could divide the episode into two. So we did, with Shaun returning as co-host. Today we give you Amanda and Priscilla with their answers to some playful questions. On the more serious, encouraging side, they share how they are being more themselves, along with what they believe in and why. There answers may surprise you.

What I am loving about the Believe series is there is no topic under which these questions should be answered. Guests are taking the questions in all kinds of directions and that’s what makes this unique. Just like each one of us is unique, so are our stories and how we approach revealing pieces of ourselves to others. I appreciate how UY guests come bravely as themselves with vulnerability, share with us authentically, and are transparent - a window into who they are. Let’s all do more of that please. It matters because you matter. And there’s nothing better you can do than to be fully you.

**Friends. Supporters. Authentic.**

**— Amanda Pontsler and Priscilla Norman**

Friends Come in All Ages

Thoughts on The Celebration Continues with Amanda and Priscilla

As I look at the picture of Amanda and Priscilla, I am reminded they are both in their early thirties. If you’ve been following along in any fashion you know that I clearly am not. As I often say, I’m in my third act. Not too far in but in just the same. So how is it that I have friends who are so much younger than me? Well, when I take an honest assessment of my life I see I have friends who are all kinds of ages. I think that is at it should be.

I am attracted to people who live life in a way that is brave, genuine and truthful. I have friends from my years working in children’s theater, particularly the teaching artists I was fortunate to hire and then collaborate with on various projects. Now some of those have gone on but I will tell you if I ran into them I would be very happy to see them again! There is an investment made when you love what you do and you pour the into the people around you. For me the connection goes on past time and space. A friend of any age can come to me for help, encouragement and they know I will be there.

Further reflection reveals friends who are from school, past jobs, met through other people, even on Instagram. I have a friendship with people in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. I don’t happen to know anyone currently in their 90’s but you never know. (We even have young grandkids and I’d like to say we’re friends too. I actually have a seven-month old in my lap as I finish this up.) Then there is the church we attended for a long time. In fact from there we have a small group that still meets every two weeks to do life together, and to go through a book, or the Bible. We pray for each other. Another investment.

I’ve been told I can be hesitant when first getting to know someone, past the initial introductions. That does ring a bit true. I think I try people on and see if they are a good fit. Are they safe? Trustworthy? Are they interested in authentic, transparent, and vulnerable connection, all the things I hold so dear? If so then you will have a friend for life because I will cherish what we have, and encourage you with all I have. Because I’ve made the choice, because I care. That is the ultimate investment.