99999 Daily life was never meant to be lived alone. This fact is true in regards to our emotional and physical well-being. As one writer has correctly observed, �No man is an island.� Indeed, each of us needs regular association with other people. In other words, we need friends. A helpful definition of a friend is a person who cares about you regardless, who faithfully stands by you, and who always has your best interests at heart.

99999 Please consider the following comparisons that emphasize the value of a true friend:

99999 A friend is like a shock absorber. In the lives of each of us there are bumps and bruises that will cause us pain and frustration. Also, there are the burdens and troubles that will weigh heavily on us at times. A true friend will gladly and lovingly step in and help to ease these burdens.

99999 A friend is like a fresh spring that refreshes us. It is a fact of life that things do not always go as expected. Sometimes we may wonder if we are going to drown from the despair and discouragement we are feeling. But a true friend is always there with a reassuring word of encouragement that lifts our spirits when we desperately need it.

99999 A friend is like a treasure we find. It is a wonderful feeling knowing there is someone who is concerned about us and will always listen. The preciousness of friendship is realized as even the seemingly small and insignificant things are special. It may be something as small as a favorite joke or story, or a telephone call just to see how we are doing. But each of these things is a treasured and precious thing.

99999 Let�s resist the temptation to become too busy with the responsibilities of life that we fail to maintain and cultivate friendships. Unfortunately, sometimes without meaning for it to occur, friends drift apart. This may happen due to a change in jobs, retirement, or moving away. What can be enjoyable and enriching is to renew a friendship with someone from years ago.

99999 Day by day may we continue to take time for our friends. This will enrich you in living your life, and will provide you with a way to help other people along the pathway of life.

99999999999999999999999999 Bruce Ligon

Life in the Real World,
School Days, School Days

Back to Articles and Sermons

Back to Plain Dealing Church of Christ