Friend or Associate

Lately, I have been evaluating the relationships with those that I categorize as my "Friend." My Bible provides the definition of the word "Friend" as an intimate associate, association of familiarity and companionship. Now, with that being said, I'm sure that you can draw a many of conclusions to this definition. However, in my opinion, not saying that the Bible is incorrect- but friendship cannot just simply be defined by a definition. It is defined by the action, the loyalty, the compassion, the unselfish, and the truthful demeanor that a friend is entitled to possess.

My husband told me that I needed to find me some friends here because he is tired of me just sitting around the house. In relation to my Bible's definition of friendship, along with my standards, individuals that possess those qualities are really hard to find. Sadly, majority of those that I used to consider a "friend" are merely just "associates" now. True friends will never intentionally do anything to hurt you, nor will you feel as though you are looked down upon due to the decisions that you have made in your life. True friends will step up and be there for you when you are down and not criticize you because you didn't go down the path they intended for you to travel down.

We all have grown up differently, experienced different things, and learned from a many of the mistakes that we have made. Let us please not forget that success is not measured by what you achieve in life. It is measured by what you have been blessed to overcome. There are millions of people in this world that have earned college degrees, modeled professionally, and traveled across the world. But how many people can truly say that I took all of my past hurts, learned from them, and now I strive everyday to be there and assist the next person that may be encountering those same trials. Trust me, there are very few that do that.

What I am trying to say is that life is about helping others, being an ear for someone to cry too and a shoulder to cry on. Being selfish, and calling yourself a friend is the worse thing that you can do in the world. Trust me.... I used to be that person. You live and you learn. Just be sure to LEARN!