The importance of friendship...

I am an only child and have been ok with that my whole life, I have never really had close female friends and thought I never needed them. I don't have a bff and am ok with that, many call me somewhat of a loner. However, now at 30 I truly understand the need to have and foster those "girlfriend" #nohomo relationships.

There are several women in my circle who I admire, respect, love and want to be just like when I grow up for several different reasons. I am a firm believer that if you can't look at the people in your circle and learn something from them, be inspired by them, be encouraged by them, be pushed by them, and simply want to be like them you may need a new circle. Why would anyone seriously consider being friends with someone that they can't learn anything from? Why would anyone consider being friends with someone who never has anything positive going on in their lives?

I promise when I am at my wits end I can reach out to any of these women and they will be right there for me no questions asked!!! You know why? cause they love me, care about me, want me to be happy, and they know I will do the same. I can also reach out to them for a good laugh, your friends just shouldn't be there when something is wrong, you have to share the good times as well. Some people only need a friend when they are going through it -- but forget your number when something good happens to you, for you or for them.  Reciprocity is a must in all relationships you can't always be on the receiving end , we all have to give a little.

Let me just speak to that for a minute -- Webster defines reciprocity - as a mutual exchange of privileges.  This is such an important element of any relationship.  I think people tend to forget that "girlfriend #nohomo relationships need this just as must as romantic relationships.  Why do you think it is so hard for people to understand this concept?  I mean for me and my friendships this is a must -- not just because it is the right thing to do BUT because I love giving my friends the very best of me, I love knowing they know they can depend on me, I love knowing they know I won't judge, I love knowing they know what we talk about stays with just us, I love knowing they know they can trust me -- PERIOD!
 
 
I love surrounding myself with strong women, it never fails when I feel like I am lacking something I can go to anyone of them and get exactly what I need.  Most times they don't even know their testimonies are speaking to my very soul.  One thing that is important to me in a friendship is pure uncut honesty... I am the type of person who needs it and gives it; I also need people who are vaults and don't judge.

When I tell you over the past year God has blessed me with multiple friendships like that...chile I am not even sure I can put that into words. I look forward to getting input from them, advice ( I may not always follow), and even criticism from them. These women support me no matter what but they also will check my ass if I am just being crazy -- which I can often be.

One other thing that make me smile when I think of these women is the fact that they will be and are active in my daughters life.  I am so happy she will have a ton of strong women around her to look up to.

There is no need for me to list the names of these women, they know who they are.  I don't hide my love, admiration, and respect for them.  I try to make sure I let them know daily what they mean to me and my life.