A friend loves at all times.
Work
to build solid relationships that are mutually beneficial. Here are
some signs that a relationship's headed that way: (1) Mutual enjoyment.
In solid relationships people spend time together just for the joy of
being together. What they do is not of significance. Unfortunately the
busyness of life causes us to forget what a joy this can be. (2) Mutual
respect. How do you build mutual respect? When you don't let obstacles
or circumstances become more important to you than the relationship.
When the pressure is on and you still treat them with patience and
kindness. When the relationship is struggling and you're willing to work
to preserve it. (3) Shared experiences. Helen Keller may have been
blind, but she had 20/20 vision when it came to relationships: "My
friends have made the story of my life. In a thousand ways they have
turned my limitations into beautiful privileges, and enabled me to walk
serene and happy in the shadow cast by my deprivation." (4) Trust. Ralph Waldo Emerson
wrote, "The glory of friendship is not just in the outstretched hand
nor the kindly smile nor the joy of companionship; it is in the
Spiritual inspiration that comes to one when he discovers that someone
else believes in him and is willing to trust him." Paul writes, "Love
never gives up" (1 Corinthians 13:7 NLT).
(5) Reciprocity. All relationships experience ebb and flow. Sometimes
one person is the primary giver, sometimes the other is. But a solid
relationship will always be two-sided. Friendships are like bank
accounts. You cannot continue to draw on them without making deposits.
If either of you becomes overdrawn and it stays that way too long, the
relationship won't last.
- love4mom
Message Friend Invite (Original Poster)