![\"Mindy](\"https:\/\/cupofjo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/mindy-kaling-b-j-novak-4-bb5373298c744bc7bdd21b96a15097b9.jpeg\")
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When I first got separated<\/a>, I would drop my kids off at their dad\u2019s apartment every Tuesday evening and wave cheerfully (\u201chave fun!\u201d) \u2014\u00a0but as soon as the building door closed behind them, I\u2019d feel my bottom lip quiver. (I treasure my solo time now, but those early days were tough<\/em>.)<\/p>\n My friends Mo and Nathan lived half a block from us, so on those nights, I would often beeline to their apartment. They\u2019d be juggling dinner prep and homework with their four kids, but they would always, without fail, greet me with huge smiles and pull up another chair to their dining table. Their home was such a soft landing place, and my eyes still prick with tears when I think about that everyday kindness.<\/p>\n Cut to this past December. My boys were traveling with their dad, so I was spending Christmas Eve solo. I had planned a quiet night at home (HBO and grilled cheese), but as the sun set, those old wobbly feelings came flooding back.<\/p>\n \u201cHey, could I ever swing by?\u201d I texted Mo, trying to sound casual. \u201cOr are you having quiet family time? No worries either way!\u201d<\/p>\n Without a second thought, Mo insisted I come over, so I walked to their house, played with their kids, ate too many sugar cookies, watched some magic tricks, and took a family portrait for them. Before heading home, happy and rosy-cheeked, I thanked Mo and Nathan, and he looked at me and replied, seriously, \u201cCome anytime, and come every time.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCome anytime, and come every time.\u201d My heart! How beautiful and open is that? How reassuring that you\u2019re wanted? What a beautiful and generous statement of friendship.<\/p>\n Mo and Nathan<\/em><\/p>\n When they came to our<\/em> house for brunch this spring, I snapped this photo of them and, later, I framed it as a gift \u2014 which, after all they\u2019ve done for me, feels a little like The Lanyard<\/a>. \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n So! During these tough times, I\u2019d love to hear: What kind things have people said or done for you? What have you loved doing for others? I\u2019d be thrilled to hear.<\/strong><\/p>\n P.S. Wise words<\/a>, and what\u2019s a nice compliment you\u2019ve received<\/a>?<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cupofjo.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/IMG_1143-scaled.jpeg\")
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