smg_foto / Pixabay
As I observed Abby, our dog, and Tigger, their cat, I thought about the characteristics of friendship. I thought back to my childhood and to my friend that I mentioned earlier. She and I were polar opposites. She was outgoing, self-confident, and loved to be the center of attention. I was introverted, insecure, and was terrified to be the center of attention. Two totally different personalities and yet we connected in kindergarten and were friends until her death.
We were so different that we complimented each other. My personality toned her antics down a bit and her personality pulled me out of my shell and gave me confidence to do things I would not have done- both good and bad! I joined clubs, took leaderships roles and competed in contests that I would never have done on my own. That was the good side.
Unfortunately, I did also get in some negative situations a few times as well. For example, we were in a home economics class in which we sat around a table every day. My friend and I were constantly interacting during class, she was cracking jokes and I was laughing, being rude in general. After weeks of this our teacher obviously had reached her breaking point and when my friend joked and I laughed that teacher totally “went off” on me!
Well, it of course devastated me because I was such a people (teacher) pleaser and my friend just thought it was hilarious! It would not have bothered her at all if it had been her.
Next time we go on to more adventures.
Biblical Inspiration: Galatians 6:2 – Bear one another burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ
Lesson in a Nutshell: Overlooking differences in order to become friends can make both your lives more complete.
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