The Friend

Close your eyes and imagine that you are sitting alone on a park bench. You feel a tap on your shoulder. Someone smiles at you and asks if the seat next to you is taken. You say it isn't, and the person sits down.

After a minute or two of silence, the person begins to talk to you. As the conversation continues, you realize that this is someone you get along with quite well. You both have many of the same interests, and many of the same views about life. Before going your separate ways, the two of you exchange contact information.

Soon you are close friends. You find that your new friend is nonjudgmental and accepting, as well as a good listener. You like your new friend and your new friend likes you in return. Sometimes your friend initiates contact, and sometimes you do; it's a healthy balance. The two of you soon know all each other's secrets, and you are able to be your authentic self. Every confession only engenders increased closeness.

You feel completely understood by your friend. There is a sense of mutual loyalty and compassion. When something good happens, the first thing you want to do is tell your friend. When something bad happens, your friend is the first person you turn to for empathy. Your friend is sincere and perfectly devoted to you.

Imagine having a friend like this. Imagine what a blessing it would be in your life!

Now imagine being a friend like this to someone else.