Friends are one of life’s greatest gifts. They help carry us when we are down and they are there to celebrate our achievements. Some we have known for many years and others are newly met. Friendship brings connection and makes us feel like we belong.

“There are no strangers here; Only friends you haven’t yet met.” – William Butler Yeats

Real friends have our backs and helps us through life’s challenges. They are there to support us even if they do not agree with our choices. They will speak their opinions but at the same time will honor ours.

Find people who accept you as you are and love you know matter what. You will know you are truly loved for being you because you will not feel a need to be someone else when you are around them. True friends only want the best for you and are not jealous of your achievements. They lift you up to blossom as your own unique flower, not a version of theirs.

“A friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself— and especially to feel, or not feel. Whatever you happen to be feeling at any moment is fine with them. That’s what real love amounts to—letting a person be what he really is.” —Jim Morrison

Life’s journey is not meant to be traveled alone—it is a pilgrimage to be shared and created with others. This is what makes ordinary moments extraordinary. We are all linked in this divine circle of life, and our job is to experience the bond that unites us. Let’s remember we are all part of the same band—the tribe of humanity.

Today, celebrate your friendships! Let them know they are appreciated and that your life is more meaningful because of them. Open up and share yourself. Friendship is one of the best gifts you can give!

Photo by Roberto Nickson on Unsplash