Making Friends and Developing Close Friendships

Each of us have individuals that are special in our lives. They can be close like family members or just individuals that we are exceptionally close to. We are attracted to each others by our likes and relationships between each other.

In most cases, friendship is a positive experience. We are there when individuals need us. They are there when we need them. However, there is more to friendship than just that. This article examines the values of friendship.

There is an old saying that says, "Keep your friends close, but keep your enemies closer." In a way, this sort of devalues the idea of friendship. Or does it?

It is easy to make friends that we like. But, what about people we don't like? Have you ever tried to make friends with someone that you don't really like? What was your motive for doing so? Maybe you were just trying to be a caring individual. Maybe you were simply trying to get their confidence in you for one reason or another.

Friendship
To me friendship is a special bond among individuals. It is different than just having a friend.

Case in Point
I serve as an alderman for our city. We have one alderman that nobody wants to associate with. This person is always negative. I have went above and beyond to gain this individuals confidence. It hasn't been an easy process. However, once I did gain their confidence, we were able to work together for the better of the community.

I often wonder if it was just that they needed a friend or did I make the difference. I did not want to sway their opinion on city items. I just wanted to let them know, that we all need to work in a positive way to accomplish things.

How Far will You Go?
Each of us have a line that we won't cross, when it comes time to supporting your friend. Only we can make that decision. Sometimes we decide wrong. We end up embarrassing ourselves. I have always thought that if our effort was honest and sincere, it didn't matter.

There are some individuals that have friends, but no close friends. They do this to avoid getting into uncomfortable situations. Then you have the individual, that is often referred to as a true friend. True friends get totally involved. They are there in your darkest hour. They are thick skinned to what others say or do.

Conclusion
On a personal note, I feel that friends is what makes us. We need friends as much as they need us. Life is too hard to go through without friends. Successful individuals surround themselves with good people.