It recently occurred to me over coffee (as I was listening to a friend’s negative experience with a friend she has known for a lifetime) that as we grow older, friendships change and sometimes not always in a good way. As I listened more, I kept thinking about what I consider a true friend and these words came to mind…comradeship, companionship, fellowship, rapport, understanding, harmony, and unity. If these aspects are still representative, I feel that friendship is worth cultivating.
Top 6 Moments to Look for in a Friendship Worth Cultivating
Authentic - Sometimes you just need to let go in life and having a friend there that doesn't judge is comforting. That friend that doesn’t care if you are at your best or look a certain way. She/he doesn’t judge because you are important to them.
Genuine Happiness - Being sincerely happy for each other when good things happen.
Laughter - Being able to laugh and smile with a friend is truly special. It can lift each other’s spirits and has been known to relieve sadness during the roughest patches. Not to mention laughing together is just plain fun.
Reinvigoration - It’s not uncommon for me to go a while without talking with a close friend due to, well, life. But, even though time has passed, we seem to pick up right where we left off. When we do talk, I always feel energized and happy to have reconnected.
Risk Taking - Having a friend that acknowledges that there are knew ideas and activities happening and knows when to push you forward when you are scared. I think its pretty common for us to be afraid of trying knew things and sometimes all it takes is a friend to say, “Go for it!”
Honesty - It’s important to be able to trust that each other. I’ve realized over the years, that some of my closest friends and I have allowed each other to openly and freely talk.
- Elizabeth -
I love this!
Posted by: Randi Melnyk | 06/23/2014 at 07:34 PM
All very true points you bring up. They are all somewhat related, as well. Although I am not the greatest socialite, I truly believe it is a mindset to want to meet others and form relationships with them. There is something special to be said with friendships that just won't break, despite the bends which occur.
Posted by: Brandon | 06/23/2014 at 07:23 PM
Great post, Elizabeth! These truly are some great building blocks that are the core of some of my longest lasting friendships and those that are just starting out!
Posted by: Lucas_madden | 06/23/2014 at 05:05 PM