Value of Friendship

Throughout the course of your life, there are many times when you need assistance. This assistance may be as much as help during a crisis or a simple, non-threatening ear. In order to get this much needed assistance, you can ask or seek help from strangers but you may not be comfortable with them or are afraid to really trust them because you do not know them. There are other options, however, that can provide you with help whether that is emotional, financial advice, or a non-judgemental ear.
The option that doesn't cost you a cent, or cause family related issues when you reveal some concerns about others is to turn to a good friend. A lot of people tell me that they have a lot of good friends but I really doubt this is true. And, over the course of many, many years, and through several challenging issues, I can tell you from experience that my really good friends have been counted on only one hand. So, what do I consider as a really good friend? The distinction in defining a friend must be clearly distinguished from acquaintances, of which we all have many.
To me, a really good friend offers a non-judgemental, non-threatening demeanour; one who is willing and able to attend to your requirements without thought of compensation or without the assumption that you will owe them in return. A true friend values you as much as you value them. A true friend is there for you no matter the time, circumstances or need. They do not choose when to help, in fact, they offer their help even before you ask.
Over the years, I consider myself to be extremely fortunate to have several really good friends that have stepped up to what I need no matter when or how difficult. These kinds of friendships are invaluable; you could never put a price on these people nor would they want you to. In return, I'm sure that for those really great friends you are the same to them.