Everyone who has ever watched Grey’s Anatomy understands the dynamic of the “Twisted Sisters”. They are the epitome of a true friendship. Recently, I had a discussion with a friend of mine that really got me thinking. What is a true friend? What qualities does my "person" have that I am thankful for?
1. They Always Support You
The first indication of an amazing friend is that no matter what is going on in their life, they are supporting you and your dreams. Even if you go a few days without hearing from them because life gets hectic, you know that they are cheering you on from afar. And if you are a true friend to them, you do the same. In this type of friendship, there is a mutual understanding, whether spoken or unspoken, that you are rooting for each other.
2. They Don't Require Constant Communication
As with all of the best relationships, a great friendship does not require constant communication. There comes a point where you have to understand that you both have your own lives and your own responsibilities, and you have to set aside your phone to get work done. In unhealthy relationships and friendships, the idea that the other person’s life is not strictly all about you is not recognized. If your friendship is based on a constant connection to the other person, you’re going to get fed up quickly. On top of that, you'd eventually find yourself forgetting who you are because you've spent so much trying to be with them that you actually begin to turn into them.
3. They Aren’t Only There When It’s Convenient
Everyone has those people that they hang around because it’s “convenient”, as in they’re just there. But with your true best friend, you make an effort to show up when necessary (and occasionally not when it’s necessary, like when you’re both just sitting on the couch playing on your phone). They’re around for every important event in your life: graduations, weddings, funerals, birthdays… a true best friend would never miss a second of what is most important to you. But they're also there in your time of need. In the midst of a breakdown, if you call your person, they will always show up. You will never have to binge watch Netflix and eat ice cream out of the carton alone.
4. Eventually, Your Family Becomes Their Family
After a while, your family just accepts the fact that they’re always around and they don’t miss a beat. Suddenly, the dinner table will be set for five instead of four, and your family actually get offended when you come home without your best friend. They walk in without knocking, and often call out "I'm home!"
5. They Call You Out
What kind of best friend would they be if they didn’t let you know you’re in the wrong? A true friend will tell you when you’re being unrealistic or impractical. They’ll let you know when you need to calm down, when you need to back off, or when you screwed up. Not only will they call you out on your BS, they’ll also make an effort to tell you when your outfit is horrendous or when you need to put a little more makeup on to cover that zit. They are not afraid to tell the truth, and they are definitely not afraid of your reaction. They are always the first to notice when a guy doesn’t have your best intentions in mind, and they’ll let you know. After all, a true best friend only wants the best for you.
Your person is not someone who lives to please you. They tell you how it is and remind you to be humble. They will always support your dreams and do their best to make sure you reach your full potential. Your person isn’t always going to be your biggest fan, and trust me, you won’t always be theirs. They refuse to let you settle for less than you deserve, and they will push you to your limit. But in the end, when it’s all said and done, you wouldn’t trade them for the world.
I'm happy to say that I have found my person, and I hope that, if you haven't already, you'll find yours soon.