Friends

I have always thought that I was a better friend to others than they were to me.  I have a way of giving my "all" to a friendship, but don't seem to receive it back.  I think I am a nice person!  I like me!  So, I went looking for info on "friends" and found this interesting article.

How to Be a Better Friend

1. Remember that friends are there for both the good and the bad. If your friend is going through a difficult moment, try to be there for him/her. Even if you can't solve it (and you usually can't) knowing someone is there with them will help them more than you can imagine.
2. Understand that if your friend is doing something that you don't agree with: tell them. If it's something that can't harm them, but you don't like, give them your opinion and then drop the subject. If it is something potentially harmful to them and they won't stop, seek help.
3. Never wait for them to seek you out. If this is a friend you don't see often: Call them! Visit them! Don't always wait for them to look for you, make it be both ways. However don't go overboard into stalkerish attitudes. If your friend doesn't call back after you've called twice, let things cool and call another friend.
4. Learn never to judge your friends. No matter what they're doing you don't agree with, remember that it is their life and you've got to respect their choices. You can support them, or tell them you don't agree, but don't judge. Don't try to imitate your friends. This kind of attitude is a turn off and may make your friends beg for some distance from you. Remember to be yourself, no matter what.
5. Learn to listen. It's a good skill to have. Everyone loves to talk about themselves. Practice not interrupting with things like, "Oh yeah, I did that too once..." and starting in with a story about yourself. Ask lots of questions and be interested in what your friend is saying. Sometimes if you're shy, they will come to you. Be honest and open.

Before I found this article, this was going to be a rant.  I was going to say that I feel neglected by some of my friends and that I really, really want to get back some of what I give.  I was going to say it is better to be pissed off than pissed on.  I still agree with that one!  Well, I guess I said those things, but there was a lot more!  #5, be a good listener...that is me.  People tell me the darndest things that begin with "don't tell anybody, but...."  Are these people my friends?  Not sure about that.  I just want someone to share with, talk to, feel good about.  Ya know what I mean, jellybean?