In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson “The only way to have a friend is to be one”
First let’s look at the definition of FRIEND. 1. A friend is a person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard. 2. A person who gives assistance; patron; supporter. 3. A person who is on good terms with another; a person who is not hostile.
I can say that I have a few of these in my circle. I have friends that I’ve known since Elementary, Middle & High School and even though we’ve somewhat grown apart in our adult lives we can still pick up where we left off whenever we reconnect. I have friends I’ve met in adulthood whom I’ve grown to love like my own family. My true friends know me inside and out and accept me for who I am. I’m transparent, what you see is what you get! Funny enough I haven’t really had any huge falling outs with any of my true friends either, which is great because I hold grudges! I’m working on that though…
I am the type of friend that loves to keep the peace and will give you my last, but if I am being taken advantage of will 86 you in a heart beat! I’m very honest, up front, blunt and at times have no filter especially if I’m emotional about the subject matter but, will tell you like it is! I can say anything to someone’s face, and if I can’t it won’t come out my mouth! I’m that friend that will give you a shoulder to cry on, an ear to vent, be understanding and just be there in their times of need because I know hands down they’d do it for me. Friendship is reciprocated. Friends are allies not enemies and I’m not looking for frenemies! Oh… and I don’t pass judgement either. That’s not my job!
What I don’t like and won’t tolerate is someone who acts like they are a friend but, really isn’t. Someone who doesn’t have my best interest at heart and someone who passes judgement like they are holier than thou… I also love bringing people together who may not have met had it not been through me, and I’m protective of my circle of friends. I completely appreciate when our diverse personalities mesh well. When my girls and I get together we are open to speak freely about whatever is on our hearts. We shouldn’t have to modify our dialogue, worry about being judged or someone thinking our genuine feelings are not so genuine and wreckless chatter!
What really stands out to me though is some people just don’t know how to appreciate a good friend or be a good friend for that matter! I’ve had some situations arise that have me reevaluating who my TRUE friends are. At the end of the day true friends are blessings and shouldn’t be taken for granted! Do you consider yourself a good friend? What do look for in friendship? What would your friends say about you?