How to Be a Real Friend

In this crazy world where relationships often last about as long as a Popsicle on a hot summer day, it's nice to know that it is possible to actually make and keep friends. There is an art to being a friend and it's one that has to be practiced and perfected like any other kind of art. If you want to have a friend, you must learn to be a friend and here are some suggestions that will help you in that quest.
When you hit it off with someone and find that you have a lot in common and enjoying spending time together, it's only natural that you would want to continue that relationship. You'll want to pursue the friendship but not as such a pace that it frightens off the object of your interest. Be constant but not overbearing. Suggest getting together but if you sense a hesitancy on the part of your friend, back off a bit and give them a little space. Everyone is different in how quickly they like to develop a relationship. Respect their parameters.
Become familiar with the moods of your friend so that you can be uplifting when you sense the need for that, or perhaps so you can inject some humor when things are getting rather "heavy" or just a listening ear when that is what is called for. Be there for your friend because chances are very good that they will be there for you when you have those needs.
Cherish the friendship for the treasure that it is. Real relationships are a lot of work and worth every bit of the effort that you put into them, so plan to be there for the long haul. Make sure your friend knows they can count on you in good times and in bad times and that you are not judging them. You don't have to agree with everything they do or say to be a friend, it's okay and perfectly normal to see things from an entirely different perspective. In fact, those differences can be very helpful in maintaining a good balance both for yourself and your friend.
You should be able to have great laughs, good cries and wonderful experiences with a true friend but don't expect every day to be a great day. Friendships go through ups and downs like almost every other relationship. It's all so worth it and you can count yourself a blessed person indeed if you have a true friend that will be with you through the thick and thin times of life.

Nancy kelsey Smith