I know it seems like a strange question, but it really isn't. I live by the philosophy that "a friend is a gift you give yourself". It has served me well.
I know a lot of people worldwide, many through business. I have many acquaintances, some I hang out with and some I don't.
However, I have very few friends. And this is by choice. Other than family (I am very blessed to be so close to my siblings), I can count on one hand the number of people I consider my real friends. These are people I trust with my life. These are people I love like family. These people I can say anything to and I know what I say will be kept in confidence. I don't have to tip toe around sensitive issues with them. I can speak my mind openly and honestly and they can do the same with me. They love me for who I am, not for what I can do for them.
Let me say it again in case you missed it. My friends love me for who I am, not for what I can do for them. And the feeling is mutual!
I am friendly with a lot of people, but being friendly and being a true friend are totally different animals in my opinion. I am friendly with acquaintances, but that does not make them part of my inner circle. That just makes me nice. That doesn't mean I gossip with them. That doesn't mean I tell tales out of school. That simply means I am nice to people. We talk about family and life and whatever else comes to mind, but we don't talk about other people. If someone wants to know about someone else, I suggest that they talk to that person directly. It is not my place to be talking to someone about someone else. If more people would embrace and follow this simple concept, the world might be a happier place. Just a thought.
