True Friends

Friends.  We all have them.  Some close and some not so close.  Have you ever wondered what a true friend is and how to decide which of your friends are real?  I had to come to the realization not too long ago and it was emotional but also refreshing and I felt a sense of relief.  So I wanted to do a little research on the subject.

 According to http://www.allaboutgod.com/true-friendship.htm a true friendship is the following:
- Having a shared sense of caring concern.
-A desire to see one another grow, develop, and succeed in all aspects of life.
-Being there and doing things for each other without expectations in return.
-Ability to share thoughts and feelings without the fear of negative criticism or judgement.
-Encouraging and forgiving one another.
-Loving each other no matter what and always wanting the best.

The biggest thing to me is the support, encouragement, and love.  No matter what my friends want, feel, or believe, even if it is against my beliefs or could put distance between us, I want them to succeed and be happy in life.  If you ever feel that someone in your life is not wishing for your happiness and success no matter what it means for them, say something!  One of two things will happen: 1. your friend will talk with you, acknowledge your feelings constructively, and share his or her own feelings without accusation or hurt. 2. The complete opposite!  Whichever happens, you will know whether this person is a true friend or not and while there may be some hurt and sadness, the relief and freedom felt after will feel so nice.  Like I said, this recently happened to me and it seems my life has been happier and I have realized more of the good people in my life.

"In life, we never lose friends, we only learn who the true ones are." -Unknown