[I would rather continue watching Jeopardy and fall asleep but I must complete the goal! And I feel like this submission is going to be a bit of a ramble but I will try to keep it in the road…}
Proverbs 18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother (KJV).
One of the many things, the many lessons I believe to have learned this year is about friendship. I think there is a saying that time is a wonderful teacher. As you age, what defines friendship changes, as is should. In my classroom, I must stay impartial and often remind my 4 and 5-year-olds that we are all friends. The goal is to promote tolerance and inclusion. However, if they play with a friend in the classroom, then that this the friend they remain with for the rest of the day. They make plans to play together on the playground, sit beside each other during lunch, and exchange looks during group time. Their standard of friendship is based on whoever is kind to them at a particular time. As an adult, someone being friendly could just be perceived as someone just being nice or it could develop into a mutual understanding or even a friendship.
Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend (NLT).
This year I cut off a friend or two. I have learned that my tolerance has decreased. Things that I may have let slide, I stood my ground and cut my losses. I think those cuts have made way for me to invite those who I need in my life. I know I am surrounded by people who push me out of my comfort zone. I have friends who support me unconditionally. I have friends who have allowed me to be comfortable with myself. I appreciate those who love me and are able to pull abilities and creativity out of me that push me further along.
Friendship is something I have always valued. I consider my close friends as family. I allow that line to become blurred. It has almost become cliche’ to say that “friend” is a term that should not be taken lightly but it could not be more accurate. Calling someone or allowing someone to hold the title as friend carries so much weight. Ther fight, prayer, laughter, tears, honesty, love, strength, and shoulder are all necessary. I try to be the friend that I need. It’s hard but worth it.
Give love. Get love.
The Ready Writer 