Being a Better Friend

In my lifetime, I have had many obstacles to overcome. In fact, sometimes I have wondered if it wasn't all just one big test to see how I would hold up under the worst of circumstances. There have certainly been some good times, some absolutely wonderful times, but the bad stuff has been some of the worst imaginable. I have also been blessed with some of the best friends that the world has to offer. Without them, I don't know where I'd be today. Because of the unbelievable level of friendship I've been given, I am able to share here some tips that will help you to become a better friend.
*5 Things that a truly wonderful friend does do
1-A good friend is forgiving. He or she will understand that we all make mistakes and when you do, you need only apologize sincerely in order to make things right again.
2-A good friend listens, without judging. He or she will be the ear you can vent to, without fear of being called "dumb" or harshly judged, even if you do make the same mistake you've already made once.
3-A good friend is there in the worst times, even when it is a sacrifice. This is the friend who will not only take your midnight call, but get dressed and come over if you are in a true crisis.
4-A good friend will let you laugh, cry, or yell. You can be yourself with a good friend and let out all those emotions you would have to keep bottled up inside with other people.
5-A good friend will support your dreams. They will encourage you and cheer you on. They won't question your ability to fulfill your goals, but will instead be there to help you achieve them in whatever way they can.
*5 Things that a truly wonderful friend does not do
1-A good friend does not demand all of your time. He or she will understand that you have other obligations and not make you feel guilty about them.
2-A good friend does not limit you to them alone. This friend understands that you have other friends, too, and they don't feel threatened by that. They understand their importance in your life without having to be the one and only person in it.
3-A good friend does not speak poorly of you. They don't do it to your face and even more than that, they don't do it behind your back.
4-A good friend does not throw past mistakes in your face. If you leave your unhealthy relationship and then get into another one, they don't remind you that you did the exact same thing the last time. They simply do all that they can to help you through another heartache.
5-A good friend does not criticize you. He or she is supportive, rather than critical. This is an important attribute for a friend because this friend will help you to be the best you possible.
Being a good friend is one of the best things that you can be. In return, you will have great friends and you will gain the blessing of their support and love to carry you through the hard times. You, then, will carry them through theirs, as well. That is what being a wonderful friend is all about. It is give and take and it is a true gift.