Finding a true friend in my generation is not an easy feat. It seems like once we think we have a true friend, our paths cross and we lose that connection that was there in the first encounter. We go to college in separate places, we meet new people that absorb our time, or we simply lose contact without making time for one another anymore.
So what really is the definition of a true friend? I think we all have our own opinion and ideas on it. To me, a true friend is someone who is honest, genuine, and true. Someone who you never catch lying or can tell you their honest opinion (even if it isn’t what you want to hear). Someone who is there for you in your best of times and worst of times. Someone who supports you and wants the best for you without becoming jealous of your successes.
An important aspect of a true friend is someone who makes you a better person. After all, why do we need people in our lives if they only bring us down, not up? Is it that my generation settles for below average friends? Or is it that my generation only knows how to be below average friends?
According to the Bible, Jesus Christ gave us the definition of a true friend: "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you" (John 15:13-15).
Proverbs is another good source of wisdom: "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" (Proverbs 18:24). When finding true friends, we need to look for those who will act like siblings. The ones who will be there no matter what struggles may come or what road blocks may appear in our paths. Many companions, or many friends, is “fine,” however, when something happens where you sit there and think, "I need a friend," is when you will discover who the truest of friends are. Often times this number will take a drastic cut.
In my opinion, I would rather have four quarters than 100 pennies. Quarter-friends hold more worth standing alone then 25 penny-friends together. Sometimes in life we realize even those we thought were quarters lose their worth and go back to being pennies. Just because they say that they have your back doesn’t mean you believe them until they prove their word. People pretend well. Jealousy doesn’t live far. Real situations expose fake people, so pay attention. Discover your circle. A small close group of friends that individually hold more worth to you is what matters. Most importantly, when choosing your true friends (quarters), focus on quality not quantity.
