Friendship, at one time or another, gets difficult. It won’t always be perfect. People sometimes move or a friendship can grow cold. Some of the most difficult parts of friendship, at least for me, are starting and nurturing my friendships.
Normally, I won’t approach someone out of the blue and ask if we could hang out and get to know each other. I also really struggle with effectively communicating with people whom I call my “friends.” Because of this, I have begun to realize my friendships just start faltering and dying. Recently, I have been trying to put the lessons I’ve learned into action, and I can already see it working. So, what does it mean to be friendly? How do you make friends? How should you nurture your friendships?
Well, first you need to watch how someone acts or maybe get to know them better before actually becoming friends. The question you want to answer is, “Will they be a bad influence on me?” Don’t pick friends who may drag you into trouble!
Second, have a friendly air around you. Smile, say hello or strike up a conversation. Also, work on having an attractive character. Kindness, loyalty and compassion are good character traits to have. Believe it or not, having a friendly character often makes you attractive even more so than outward appearance.
And remember, it may take a little while to make that connection, and sometimes it just doesn’t happen. But if it doesn’t, don’t force the relationship. Some people simply don’t connect with certain people as well as they do with others.
Also, being friends does not mean you only chat, although that definitely does have a place in friendships. Stand up for your friends if they are being mistreated. Be patient with them and support them when they are having a difficult time. Most of all, learn to communicate with them. Even if it is difficult, it is extremely important to talk through conflicts, listen to each other and apologize if you have wronged them.
I hope God will bless your friendships because of this advice.
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Josiah Romito, 15 years old, is a homeschooled freshman. He is involved in youth Bible study at Watford City Assembly of God, and he enjoys writing, playing piano and reading. Josiah is the son of Joey and Natalie Romito, who are members of McKenzie Electric Cooperative.
