Friendship

Friendship is one of those relationships that although we all experience it, everyone has their own definition and understanding of it.  Interestingly enough, the dictionary defines the word by using the term “friend”, which in and of itself brings to mind again, many different feelings and descriptions.  The term is used to characterize a common bond that people share, one of concern and compassion for another human being. People are drawn into friendships by a sense of kinship, camaraderie and sameness but build lasting bonds based more on life experiences, interactions and, to a degree, attractiveness. 

My mother often said,  “Tell me who your friends are and I will tell you who you are.” I believe this is truly the heart of the term – we surround ourselves with like people or people with those qualities that we hope will rub off, those that we ourselves would like to emulate.  Our friends help support us, yes, but they also help define us.  They shape the very person we are by allowing us to exercise compassion, empathy and understanding but also by allowing us to truly be ourselves.  A true friend will take all of you – good and bad – and forgive the shortcomings that will inevitably surface throughout the relationship.  Friendships are one part of the glue that holds lives together and helps us keep the faith that all will work out in the end.  The important thing then is to remember that a good friendship will always lift you up, while a bad one will often hold you back.  Recognizing the difference – well sometimes, that’s the hardest part.

dedicated to all of my true friends out there - you know who you are and I thank you for being in my life...