In my opinion, the relationship you have with your friends is the third most important relationship you’ll have in life, after yourself and your family. And it’s ranked higher than a partner because, well, partners typically start out as friends too, and what better way to spend the rest of your life than with someone who’s not just a lover, but a friend as well. Friendships are just as tough as any other relationship out there. You’ll have disagreements, miscommunications, and even falling outs, but you’ll also have laughter, happiness, and adventure.
Growing up, I’ve always wanted to have a large group of friends or just to be someone who befriends anyone and everyone with no labels attached. I typically hung out with different friend groups, not because I was kicked out and had to find a new group of friends, but rather I was simply close with certain people who were part of different groups of friends.
I began realizing, however, that true friendships were never about the number of people I had around me. They were those who stuck by me through thick and thin.
Eventually, my circle of friends grew smaller and smaller. And, I’m completely okay with this.
I haven’t always been the best of friends. There were some friendships I took for granted, and some I was very dependent on. But, if there was one thing I hope that my close friends see about me is how much I cherish and value the bond we have together. I hope they see that their secrets are and will forever be safe with me, even when we’re no longer friends. I hope they know that their pains and challenges are mine as well. I hope they know that I will drop everything to comfort them whenever they need someone to listen.
There are many other traits I hope to fulfill as a friend, and when the time comes, I know I’ll be ready to show them. For now, I’m focusing on the ones I already possess and developing ones I’m still lacking.
No matter the trait that a friend has or is still working on, there are certain values that I believe define true friendships.
By true friendships, I’m talking about people that are part of your soul family. Soul families include your parents, friends, and love partner. These are individuals with who you feel an instant connection and comfort when you’re with them.
“Friendship isn’t about who you’ve known the longest. It’s about who walked into your life, said ‘I’m here for you’ and proved it.” -Unknown
My Definitions of True Friendships
You love and accept each other genuinely and whole-heartedly.
You understand and accept each other’s strengths and flaws.
You have differing opinions, but similar values in life.
You listen to each other without judgment.
You talk it out with each other, instead of talking about each other.
You’re there for each other’s accomplishments and setbacks.
You guide each other through challenges.
You’re genuinely happy, compassionate, and supportive of each other’s achievements and want each other to be successful in life.
You trust and have confidence in each other.
You feed off of each other’s energy and are there for one another.
You guys bring out the very best in each other and help one another learn from mistakes without condescension or humiliation.
You feel happy, safe, and at home with one another.
