Being a Friend

I recently had a friend go through a pretty traumatic experience with one of her children. And, it really made me think about friendship. I think there are so many different types of friendships, and I believe it can be hard for people who think they have to have a large circle of friends to truly be happy. I think what's best about friendship is when friends rally together to support one another. That is the greatest gift of all. Supporting your friend with kind words, love, and prayers is sometimes the best way to express your friendship and your care for them. Friends are really important.

There are times when you're younger and think you’re going to be best friends with someone forever and ever. While you can be best friends with them, that friendship changes and evolves as you go through life. You don't have to reach out to someone every single day or spend every waking moment with them in order for them to be your true friend.

As we parent our children, I think this is important for us to share as our kids are growing up and looking for acceptance and inclusion with their friends. I know when I was raising my daughters there were periods of time when they thought, “Oh my gosh! One of my friends hasn't texted me in a day or two. They must not like me anymore!” or, “I saw my friend with someone else at the mall, so we must not be best friends anymore.” That is when I had to guide them in understanding that you can have many friends and can have unique and special relationships with each of them. Friends do not have to interact with you each day, nor do they have to be the only person that you spend time with. There are a variety of friendships one can have. Finding true friends is what matters most.

What I have learned: We often get busy in our lives. But, coming together to support a friend is when true friendship shines.

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