"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." - Marcel Proust

The people I’ve met while at college have made me think, but not just about the way I say water or how I order my coffee. They’ve made me reflect on the good changes I’ve gone through and how those changes have altered my perspective. Each and every person that walks into your life inevitably changes you in some way. I’m thankful for those people, and I am fortunate enough have spent time learning about them. So if you’re thankful for someone, I encourage you to express it. These are the five types of friendships that recently have changed who I am as a person.

1. Renewed friendship

Someone you have known but never had the opportunity to develop a deep friendship with – This person is kind, loving, compassionate, empathetic, and selfless. He or she opens your eyes to new perspectives and reminds you about what is important in life. This type of friendship has shown me that life will always open new doors to you, even if you thought they were closed. It is a constant reminder that life has a funny way of working out, but often a lovely way.

2. Always laughing friendship

The complete goofball who makes you roll your eyes and question how you’re even friends – This person is hilarious, witty, helpful, brilliant, reliable, and light-hearted. He or she can not only hold a meaningful conversation with you, but also make you laugh until your ribs get tough. This person is truthful and honest in the best of ways.This type of friendship has reminded me that life doesn’t always have to be serious, and it’s okay to make stupid mistakes. Most importantly, it's okay to be wrong and admit it when you are.

3. You got this friendship

Someone who supports and believes in you – This person is understanding, generous, strong, supportive, and orderly. In my case, this person is also famous for leaving chocolate for you in times of struggle. (Thank you!) He or she keeps you in line and focused on your life goals and your future ambitions. This type of friendship is needed throughout life. It has taught me to believe in myself, and prompts me to show my support for my friends as well. It also has been a pleasant reminder that failure is inevitable, but the best way out is always through in almost all situations.

4. Relatable friendship

Someone who has gone through a similar experience as you (and trust me, you’re never alone) – This person is resilient, tough, altruistic, considerate, openhearted, loyal, and passionate. Not to mention, this person has the heart of a lion. He or she is often similar to you. This type of friendship can be a huge mix of everything. You share experiences, views, lifestyles and feelings. In a way, it reminds you of home.

5. Never leaves you hanging friendship

Someone who is there for you when you need it – This person will be therewith you through your successes and failures. He or she is unwavering, trustworthy, genuine, positive, and jubilant. This type of friendship helps you through the tough days, and rejoices with you on the good ones. It keeps you going.

It's interesting to think that sometimes your friendship keeps others afloat. If you are one of these friends, remind yourself that you are valuable and cherished by those you are close to in life. So let us be grateful for the people who cross our path, and thank them for being a joy in our days.