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Sometimes, when meeting a person whom you have heard so much about, it takes a while to see all the facets your friends cherish. Sometimes you don't see those attributes in the same way. Sometimes you don't see them at all. 
Then life and circumstances present a surprise encounter. You find yourself in the presence of their very special friend. No introduction was needed. There was instant recognition.  It wasn't from their pictures.  It wasn't from what had been said, prior to the meeting.  Rather, one knows when they are being invited into the heart of a friend, a "home" where others have resided for years. You see it in their smile, their eyes veiling a mixture of joy and pain, their open arms. 
Quietly, I felt an empty chair being pulled up to the table. A feast of friendship was prepared. A silent invitation extended. New footprints graced the welcome mat. Oh, the joy that friends bring. 
"A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words."- Anonymous