What Makes a Good Friend?

2. Be a Good Communicator

A true friendship cannot flourish without regular communication. So talk together about the interests you share. Listen to what your friend has to say, and respect his/hers' opinions.  Whenever possible, commend and encourage them.  At times, a friend may need advice or even correction, and that may not always be easy to give. However, a loyal friend will have the courage to point out a serious fault and offer tactful guidance.

WHAT PEOPLE LOOK FOR IN A FRIEND

Juan:  "A true friend should be able to express his opinions freely but not get upset if you don't agree."

Eunice:  "What I value most are friends who are willing to spend time with me and listen to me, especially when I have problems."

Silvina:  "True friends will tell you the truth-even if they know it will hurt-because they have your best interest at heart."

3. Have Realistic Expectations

The closer we get to a friend, the more likely we are to see their flaws. Our friends are not perfect, but neither are we. Therefore, we should never expect or demand perfection from the people we befriend. Rather, it is good to cherish their virtues and to make allowances  for their mistakes.

Next time: What  Makes a Good Friend?/ Conclusion of 3. Have Realistic Expectations 

From the jw.org publications