Joy and Ellie form an unlikely friendship. How do those differences help each woman see herself? Why do you think their friendship works?

Joy and Ellie form an unlikely friendship. Joy has essentially been a kept woman all her adult life, and Ellie has had to work and raise a family at the same time. How do those differences help each woman see herself? Why do you think their friendship works?

Ellie definitely needed a break from her husband and life. She found solace and inspiration in Joy. Joy needed a purpose and to think of something besides her looks and her loneliness. Ellie helped her see that she was so much more than appearances and had personal qualities to share to improve others lives, which improved her own life.

Ellie can talk openly to Joy about Gerald's emotional affair. Ellie feels safe in confiding in Joy, and Joy's feedback reassures Ellie that she is not overreacting. Ellie doesn't want her children to know that there is trouble in their parents' marriage. Ellie provides Joy the confidence to show that she can do so much more with her life.

Ellie needs someone for support in order to help understand and recover from Gerald's emotional affair and finds this with Joy. Joy finds comfort and pleasure plus purpose in this role.

The provide emotional support for each other.

Joy is encouraged to find meaning in volunteering - and loves it.

Ellie is able to vent and process her hurt with someone who will not judge her and who gives her space to heal.

Ellie helped Joy see herself differently - as a person with gifts. Joy helped Ellie by being a sounding board.