r Jen,

It has been over 30 years that we've been friends!  And, as I write this 40th birthday wish for you, I realize that you're the only friend

about whom I can make that claim.  I feel lucky to have you as my friend.

I have such hysterical memories of becoming friends with you - beginning at Nasik with our families crammed into uncomfortable, one-room accommodations for the summer; doing cartwheels on the lawn of the run-down salon's bungalows; wearing saris, chanting the guru gita, meditating, staying up all night at dancing saptas, all at ridiculously young ages; trying to balance the ashram life with being "normal" kids - and bonding over not knowing how to do that , and being embarrassed about it all together.  I remember feeling so comforted by having you as a friend - and not needing to provide explanations about the crazy ashram stuff.  I loved visiting you in Northampton (although I wondered where the skyscrapers were) and having you visit me in NY (I remember your thrill in playing the fur coat game). I always felt that although we lived apart from each other that our friendship continued to grow throughout the years.

For me, that really has been a testament of your true commitment to friendship.  You've always been a supportive and solid friend, an amazing listener with a fabulous sense of humor.  You are loving and generous and understanding, and someone whose advice and opinions I've always valued immensely.  You are someone who despite the physical distance I've always felt an incredible closeness, and know that you'll always have a very special place in my life.

My wish for you on your birthday is that you have a day filled with love and laughter and joy and that you do for yourself whatever it is that makes you happy.

All my love, Shanna