Throughout our lives we meet so many different people! Some people influence us to be better while others pull us down. Many "Friends" come and go, but there are those few that stay! It is known that one of the biggest indicators of our happiness is based on the relationships and friendships we have in life. A person could have no family at all, but be surrounded by good friends and feel just as satisfied! The key is finding those kinds of positive influences and keeping them close! So what makes a true friend? In my own opinion there are a few things that leads to a strong friendship with others! They consist of keeping in touch, genuinely caring about others, and serving them when they most need it. I guarantee that by trying to do these things for those you call your friends, you will be able to find a "true" friendship.
Why should we genuinely care about our friends? It seems like a "no, duh!" question, but it actually is very important. In talking to others, do we try to talk about ourselves the whole time or do we really care about what they are experiencing in life? Asking questions about them is so important so that they feel that you have an interest in them and especially in what hardships they may face. I have loved my time at BYU-Idaho because many of those I have met here take a genuine interest in each other. It is so fun and there is so much joy that comes out of such interactions.
Serving our friends is HUGE in maintaining friendships! Each person has their own "love language" and once we understand how they can be served, it shouldn't be too hard to reach out when they need it. I feel that the key word is WHEN! If a friend is having a hard time and it is an inconvenient timing, that should not matter! If we really care about them, we should help them in that moment of need regardless of what is in our schedule. I had an experience last semester when I injured my back and I remember those that followed through for me! I can't express the feeling of gratitude and love that fills my heart when I think of those that helped me when I couldn't help myself.
Lastly, it is vital that we keep in touch! Like a plant, friendships must be watered and cared for or they will die. Even if it is only one sided sometimes, a friend will most likely reciprocate because they feel cared for. Also, facebook is great and everything, but it is the most basic way to keep in touch with others. We can do better and cultivate deep and lasting friendships if we do more than the simple liking of another persons post. We have
to go the extra mile and put in the extra effort
required such as a phone call or lunch visit.
Summing all of this up, friendships are most deep and abiding when we show our love for others through actions. Like our Savior, we can put others before ourselves and in doing so we will find ourselves. Life is difficult for all of us, but God knew that we would grow the most and gain the most if we endured our crosses together. If we will make the effort, we will find the friends we have always wanted and feel the joy that accompanies all of it!
Challenge: Think about 2 or 3 friends that you have and consider some ways you can become a better friend to them. This week reach out to those friends in order to strengthen those friendships.
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