Sometimes we allow our lives to get too busy for friendships. How do I know? Because I have done it before. Boy, oh boy, I believe life without a friendship is a big mistake. There are lots of reasons I feel friendships are important, and I was reminded of a few of them recently.
First, friendships help me remember I am not the only person in the universe. Cultivating friendships is a way to keep giving, loving and serving alive in your life. When you dont participate in friendship you become self-centered. Frankly, because youre the only person in your circle, your friends with just yourself. Friendships build love and good things into your world; life would be lonely without friends.
A second reminder is that a wise, true friend helps determine the quality and direction of my life. Actually, side note here, unwise and false friends determine the quality and direction of your life too, so be smart when you chose your friends.
Heres an example of what I mean, if youre experiencing a life change- job, children starting college, financial woes, a move; a friend is someone who speaks into your life. They influence decisions, actions and how you may handle situations. A wise friends words are like a treasure, they help you become a better you. The dear friend I spent time with recently told me I need to be more intentional about saying what really needs said. She told me that my need to be liked sometimes outweighs me helping people by telling them the truth in love. She finished by saying, And thats selfish. She shared with me something hard, but its in an effort to grow me into a better me. Friendships change my life continually. They are precious.
Lastly, true friends bring laughter to my life. Dont underestimate time spent together over delicious food, conversation and laughter. Laughter really is good medicine and can blast sunshine into your soul. My friends give my life a swell dose of laughter. Matt Beres is the funniest friend I have. He makes me laugh DAILY.
Friends are life changers. If you dont have any good healthy ones, and arent sure where to start, email me and I will give you some ideas and information for a place to cultivate some good friends, leeann@leeannmiller.net. Also, dont forget this is the same email to use to submit a favorite teacher for Teacher of the Month.
Stik a Fork into reaching out, listening to a wise friend and a good ole belly laugh.
