Today I was looking at my holiday or Christmas cactus plant and started to think about the various friendships in my life.
In fact, this holiday cactus loaded with blooms is a gift from a friend who knew I wanted one. She actually grew it from a cutting off her larger holiday cactus, so that makes it a little more special.
What is a Friendship?
In looking back over the years, I’ve noticed that I never blogged about friendships. Actually, I had to go online to find out a little more about this topic since there are so many different types of friendships.
People form friendships to make life more enjoyable. Think about the times you got together with friends to do a special activity, attend a party, or share a common goal, etc.
Usually, one makes friends with others with mutual interests. Think of the various clubs you have joined over the years or neighbors who live near your home.
Picking Your Friends
With life, there are so many variables one is unable to control. However, you actually pick your friends.
Friendships are important because friends are happy when something great happens in your life. Think of birthdays, weddings, birth of children, and job promotions.
However, we all know bad things happen in everyone’s life and when they do, it is nice to have a friend.
I remember once hearing a school lecture about an empty bucket. You want positive people in your life to “fill up your bucket”. What you don’t need are people that take away from your “bucket” leaving you feeling less.
Evolving Friendships
Friendships take time, commitment, and energy. Over time, all friendships evolve.
Today you might not have anything in common with a friend from high school or college. Like people, friendships also change.
Do you find yourself in a friendship with a person who doesn’t have time for you, doesn’t support you, and never returns calls, etc.? Then it might be time to re-evaluate your friendship efforts.
A good friend will support you sometimes, and then other times you will support them. It’s always a bit of give and take.
A good friend should never leave you feeling drained and, of course, he/she takes the time to read your blog. That’s right all 1,375 blog postings. (Ok, I’m kidding a little here, but a true friend will have read some of them).
Ending Notes on Friendships
Opportunities are everywhere to make new friends. Or you can pick up the phone to call an old friend. It all depends, and it is all up to you.
I know with my lovely holiday cactus; I met this friend while volunteering. We found time for lunches, coffee, gardening talks and walks in the neighborhood. We enjoy each other’s company. Recently, we got together, wore our crazy-cute Halloween hats, and had a great time volunteering for a local event. And the friendship continues.
Resource Sites: www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog