by Le Quebecois

Created on: January 05, 2007   Last Updated: May 19, 2007

A few years ago I learned the true nature of friendship (a story for another day). Since then, I have been learning more and more about the value of creating and maintaining great relationships with friends. Because of the effort put into a friendship, and the people whom you choose to be your friends, your life can be enriched greatly.

Each day after the sun comes up, I look at the desert mountains in the east and start to sing a tune that a friend taught me, "Tu Amigo Quiero Ser"-"I want to be your friend"

This is the essence of how friendships should be approached. Don't let rumors or first impressions dictate how you think of someone, just remind yourself that you enjoy their company and take time to get to know them. Often someone who at first seems disagreeable will open up and share their joy with you if you give them enough time.

As part of growing up, I learned a lot from my elders (and of course, still have much to learn). I remember the day shortly before her death when my grandmother told me that we're all the product of those we meet. "It's important to meet and show loving care toward many people," she explained, "because you'll have that many people to care for you when you're feeling down. These people are you, and by experiencing them, you're really just meeting yourself."

Everyone has a story, and generally everyone longs to be a good person, so be open to their ideas and opinions. Rather than saying things like "I disagree" or "I think that's wrong", try giving your own side of the story subtly.

The golden rule will never lose its meaning-treat others as you wish to be treated. If it doesn't work immediately, I promise it will with some time. Being polite is always good as well, even to (and probably especially to) your friends.

Always show a positive view of the other person, and show genuine interest in what they have to say. Even if you don't know about a subject being discussed, show interest by asking questions and learning more.

Put a little effort into each of your friendships-if you know someone well, you know exactly what will cheer them up on that day when they're just feeling down.

Lastly, I say that the old proverb is true: "If there's room in your heart, then there's room in your home". Don't forget this principle, and always be hospitable to those around you.

Now go out, embrace friendships, and learn new things!

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