FRIENDSHIPS

Friends are often an important part of our lives. Our friends are usually people we trust and respect. Like any relationship, friendships generally require work and making changes to the friendship is not uncommon.

What is a friend?

Someone who...

--{@ Accepts you as you are,

--{@ Believes in "you",

--{@ Calls you just to say "HI",

--{@ Doesn't give up on you,

--{@ Envisions the whole of you (even the unfinished parts),

--{@ Forgives your mistakes,

--{@ Gives unconditionally,

--{@ Helps you,

--{@ Inspires you to be the best you can be,

--{@ Just happy to be with you,

--{@ Keeps you close at heart,

--{@ Loves you for who you are,

--{@ Makes a difference in your life,

--{@ Never judges,

--{@ Offers support,

--{@ Picks you up,

--{@ Quiets your fears,

--{@ Raises your spirits,

--{@ Says nice things about you,

--{@ Tells you the truth when you need to hear it,

--{@ Understands you,

--{@ Values you,

--{@ Walks beside you,

--{@ X-plains things you don't understand,

--{@ Yells when you won't listen and

--{@ Zaps you back to reality.

What is friendship?

Friendship is an in-depth relationship. Friends are comfortable and relaxed. Friendship requires meeting the needs of both friends. It is an in-depth relationship combining trust, support, communication, loyalty, understanding, empathy, and intimacy

True friendships are difficult to find. It takes years to master the ability to create non sexual closeness. We have to learn how to choose friends skillfully. Have a balance of give and take. And building mutual trust. Finally we all must disconnect peacefully when the friendship cannot be saved.

Trying to be friends is not easy. All involved must take part. When only one side works at friendship it will definitely die. The type of friend you are changes. It depends on your age, health, marital status, background, commitments and priorities.