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I'm not sure exactly when it happened. When elastic and I became friends that is. But, I think it was some time in my 40's.

Or maybe it was somewhere between a size 12 and 14.

I had always heard about elastic. In fact, we even had mutual friends. They always said how much they loved elastic. How comfortable the friendship was - how relaxed and free. You could just let it all hang out.

I thought about getting to know elastic, but truthfully, I didn't think we had much in common. We had different lifestyles. We had different tastes. It just didn't seem like a good fit. So I didn't.

But then, one day, when I was in a real bind, I realized what I needed more than anything was a friend. So, I thought maybe I might try to get to know elastic.

"You never know," I thought. "You might actually like elastic"

Well, sure enough, I discovered everything I had heard was true. Not only was elastic an easy going and comfortable friend, but a very accepting and giving one as well - unlike my other friends who could sometimes be stiff and uptight.

I began to love hanging out with elastic. I mean, who wouldn't? No more airs, no more pretending, no more sucking up who I really was just to fit in. I felt like I had finally found a true friend. A friend who accepted me for exactly who I was.

Now, I try to see elastic every day. But, if I get busy and can't, it's okay. Elastic is flexible. Or if I'm in a crappy mood and just need to be by myself, elastic is understanding and gives me room.

Or, if I am being selfish and demanding, and our relationship becomes strained, that's okay too. Because elastic is forgiving and bounces back easily. Just the way a friend should be.

When I was younger, I didn't appreciate friends like elastic. Like most young people, I spent way too much time focusing on outward appearances. Trying to be cool - even though it felt awkward and uncomfortable.

I would have been too embarrassed to be friends with elastic. People would have laughed at me - maybe even rejected me.

I hadn't learned that a true friend is one who accepts you for who you really are and is always there for you. No matter what.

I've grown up since then. Now, I'm proud to call elastic my friend. I don't care what others think or if they laugh or if they think I'm not hip or cool.

I'm more interested in honest relationships and that is what elastic and I have. No games, no entanglements. Just supportive and genuine. Always there for each other - through thick and thin.

Now that's a friend. That's elastic.

Learn more about this author, Magnolia Miller.
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