You've Got a Friend

Well, we've made it through the first month of 2010, and as I reflect on new year's resolutions, I have to say that **being a good friend** has risen to the top of my list. We need our friends - those who are like-minded, those who care about us, and can share a bit of common ground. Friends don't necessarily agree with everything we say or do, but friends generally treat each other with respect and dignity, and if conflicts or disagreements arise, *friends* will try to unravel such happenings with kindness, and maturity. With that said, the concept of friendship is evolving - and there are different ways to define it. Yes, we have those friends that we see regularly, and for me, *my girlfriend posse* is extremely important. But there is more. When we give back to our communities, and reach out to help people who need it, we're offering a special level of friendship, and it's one that feels particularly good, too. Friendship is a precious gift. We're clearly looking for it, and perhaps even crave it. Just look at the success of internet social networking sites. Being a friend means you step up even when times are bad. This tough economy has been devastating for many and for some people I know, recovery of financial stability has been slow and elusive. Friends are even more important when our lives turn upside down. The comfort of a friend -- even when the support is in the form of a tweet, email, text or post, can make the difference between a day spent in sadness, and a day that offers promise. This new year, with all of its hardships, economic difficulties, and global challenges, I plan to extend my hand in friendship to as many people as I can. I'll make sure that I see and acknowledge the ***inner worth*** in every friend.