As a widow and motivational speaker, I have learned through my experiences the true value of friendship. I have come to understand that there are real friends and there are fake friends, and knowing the difference between the two is crucial in life.
Real friends are those who stand by you through thick and thin. They are the ones who are always there to lend a listening ear when you need it, offer a helping hand when you're in trouble, and support you in your endeavors. Real friends don't judge you and accept you for who you are, flaws and all. They are honest, loyal, and dependable, and they will always have your back. Real friends are not doormats and yes men. Not to mention they will tell you when you are wrong.
On the other hand, fake friends are those who only stick around when it's convenient for them. They are the ones who are quick to disappear when the going gets tough, or when they no longer see any benefit in the friendship. Fake friends are superficial and only interested in what they can gain from you. They are often judgmental and don't respect your boundaries, and they may even betray you when it suits them.
One of the important lessons I have learned about friendship is that some people are only meant to be in your life for a season. This means that they may come into your life for a specific purpose, such as to help you grow or learn something new, and then leave when that purpose has been fulfilled. It's important to recognize when someone's season in your life has come to an end and to let them go with love and gratitude for the role they played in your life.
When it comes to identifying real friends versus fake friends, there are several practical signs to look out for. Real friends are those who:
Are consistent in their behavior towards you, regardless of the circumstances.
Are there for you during both good times and bad times.
Are honest and trustworthy.
Respect your boundaries and values.
Are supportive of your goals and aspirations.
Fake friends, on the other hand, are those who:
Only reach out to you when they need something.
Are only interested in being around you when things are going well for you.
Are judgmental and critical.
Disrespect your boundaries and values.
Are not supportive of your goals and aspirations.
Real friends are those who stand by you through thick and thin, while fake friends are only interested in what they can gain from you. It's important to recognize when someone's season in your life has come to an end and to let them go with love and gratitude. By identifying the signs of real and fake friends, you can surround yourself with people who truly care about you and support you on your journey through life.
“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend” (Proverbs 27:17).
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