Friendship is something that I don't take lightly. I grew up eleven years after my closest sibling and so without friends I would have been very lonely.
I often ponder what attracts certain friends to each other. When I was younger I used to think that being the same age, and having very similar interests were the most important factors. However, the older I get the less I think that is true.
Don't get me wrong, most of the people that I would count as close friends are within ten years of my age, but as far as interests go the spectrum is pretty broad.
One of my best friends is a very creative person. Her flower beds are beyond comparison, and her decorating in her home is gorgeous. I, on the other hand, enjoy flowers, but don't have the patience to go much beyond a couple perennial beds. My house reflects my personality with quite a hodge podge of this and that. Having said that, I know that my friends creativity is part of what attracts me to her as a friend. When I need advice especially in the creativity department I know who to call.
Another close friend has an excellent eye for details, and authenticity. If I'm not quite sure if I trust someone she is the one I ask. I even asked for her opinion on my future husband. :)
I guess my point in all of this is that a big part of friendship for me is an admiration of qualities in other people that I myself do not possess.
One definition of the word friend is; A person whom one knows, likes, and trusts.
I especially like that last word because it's a good reminder of what makes me a friend to others. If I am not trustworthy I shouldn't be surprised if I don't have many close friends.
I should say that I think everyone goes thru seasons of their life when they feel more lonely, and like they don't have many friends. I think this is one way that God draws us close to himself. "A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." Proverbs 18:24 I also think that when we are feeling lonely is an excellent time to reach out to someone else who might be lonely. Send a card, make a phone call, or drop off supper for another busy mom.
I feel like I've been truly blessed with a number of wonderful friends. If you are one of them, and you are reading this--Thank you for being my friend!!
