Sometimes it is hard to determine who your real friends are. You may think you have the true gems by your side, only to find them MIA in your most desperate times of need. However, you find your true blue buds when you least expect it. Trust me, you'll know that they are a keeper if you recognize the majority of these characteristics.
1. Support for you is never not an option.
They love you more than words can describe and every instance that they support you is an undeniable choice they have made. Why wouldn't they have your back? So often, friends turn their backs when they feel like they cannot support you any longer, but the true gems are there through it all.
2. Their listening sometimes means more than their advice.
They are the best listeners, lending you an ear or a shoulder to cry on whenever you need it. You don't need them to know all the answers, you just need them to hear where you're coming from.
3. They tell you when you're wrong.
You know your best friends are looking out for you always. So when you've overreacted or are carrying on a bit too much, you should probably trust their word.
4. When you haven't seen each other in awhile, you pick up right where you left off.
No time is lost between you and your best friend. When distance comes between you for an extended time, nothing changes and that's what is so darn wonderful.
5. You go on adventures, or you sit at home and do nothing, and are fine with either.
Whether you are exploring a new city or sitting on the couch watching endless seasons of "Friends" or "New Girl," it doesn't make a difference. All that matters is the time that is spent with them.
6. They know your type.
Need a wingman or wingwoman? Oh man, do they know what you are into! Leave it up to your BFF to set you up.
7. Silence is normal.
The silence in the car, the silence while eating food, the silence while watching "The Bachelor." All are normal, and shall not be broken too soon. There is no reason to fill in gaps because there is nothing to prove. You already love and respect each other anyways.
8. They help you make decisions.
Chances are when you're facing a 50 / 50 decision to be made, you are texting your very best friend, asking what they would do. Chances are, they are talking you through it all.
9. They celebrate you for who you are.
That's why they are friends with you, right? They love the things you stand for, the organizations you are a part of, the person you are. They are proud to be friends with you.
10. They tell you, "I love you," and mean it.
You never question if the 'I love you' is sincere, because you truly know they would do anything for you. It's friends like these that make life that much more wonderful.
To all of my best friends: the hometown gems, the college roommates, the friends found in the middle of a college party who have been there ever since, my teammates, my sorority pals, the guy friends who let me be a bro every once in awhile, my family, my dog. Yeah, you get the point. I could not be more grateful for each and every one of you.
