Friends

Have you ever had that unexpected hurt feeling? The one that rushes over you like a heat wave, pulling color to your cheeks and speeding up your heart rate like a revving engine? The feeling that creates an anxiety in you that can't be resolved because it hasn't been created of your own fruition? That feeling of attack; being treated unfairly; "I didn't do anything wrong! I'm trying here!"

I had that today.

I am pretty sure I have a clear perspective on what friendship is suppose to be and I absolutely know it includes benefit of the doubt and forgiveness. I also know that it should include laughter as well as tears and should never include bullying or mortal combat. 

Have you ever had that feeling that someone you've always considered a friend actually never has been a true one?

I had that today.

When someone makes you feel like a villan
more times than they make you feel loved,
that's not friendship.

When someone always asks things of you
that will help boost their success
but don't bother asking if they can return the favor,
that isn't friendship.

When someone will only return a favor
for monetary compensation,
that's not friendship

When someone throws accusing words at you
every time you find a chance to "catch up",
that's not friendship.

When someone puts your flaws under a microscope
never accepting you for who you are,
that's not friendship.

When someone expects you to call
but never picks up the phone to do so themselves,
that's not friendship.

If someone is demeaning
but says they aren't trying to make you feel bad,
they are not a friend.

If someone doesn't recognize the things you HAVE done
but insists on reminding you of all the things you HAVEN'T done,
they are not a friend.

If someone is always wondering
when you're going to drive 50 miles to see them
but never asks if they can come visit you,
they are not a friend.

If someone takes multiple opportunities to
glorify and celebrate themselves each day
but forgets to acknowledge things that are important you,
they are not a friend.

PEOPLE, LISTEN TO ME!

If there is someone in your life that you would call a friend, THINK! 

Think about that person.

Do you have a friend that inspires you?
Tell them.

Do you have a friend who's made you feel good?
Tell them. 

Do you have a friend that's talented?
Tell them.

Do you have a friend that you feel is extra good at a certain something?
Tell them

Do you have a friend you think is pretty?
Tell them.

Do you have a friend that you feel you've wronged?
Tell them

Do you have a friend that you think needs a hug? Give it.

Do you have a friend you think might need extra support?
Give it to them.

Do you have a friend that you think needs forgiving?
FORGIVE THEM NOW!

Do you have a friend?

If you don't think you do, BE a friend and you will find you have many.

Without true friendship, relationships will turn sour. Feelings will be hurt, anger will stir and hearts will break. Treat people fair. Don't be selfish. Life is not about #1 me-oh-my. Don't be hurtful or demeaning. Don't use harsh words or make acusations. Be humble and forgiving. Treat people like you would want to be treated.

The Golden Rule is made of gold for good reason. Think on that...