Friendship

When I was a lot younger I remember older people saying to me "towards the end of your life you will be able to count your true friends on one hand." I say WOW then I must be really blessed because I have enough for both hands and maybe even a foot or two. Now I'm not saying that it was easy to get here. I have had quite a few disappointments along the way and some still stings when I think about it. However; there are many valuable lessons in those failed relationships.  See our trials and tribulations are what I like to refer to as "teachable moments". No matter how old we get we can still be taught important lessons in life. It is when we don't learn from these failed relationships/life lessons that we will continue to make the same mistakes. And yes you guessed it folks! You will get the same results you have always gotten. After all; the true definition of insanity is trying the same thing over and over again expecting a different result. We must be open to change.

Now we have all heard to live the good life we must eat right, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep and manage our stress with relaxation, recreation and meditation. But did you know that there are actual scientific studies that show having good friends can lower levels of cortisol a stress hormone by reducing stress, improve self esteem, protect against dementia & reduce risk of depression. Studies have shown that people with a social network of good friends have fewer cardiovascular problems and lower levels of a protein linked to more aggressive types of cancer as well.  Studies have also shown that people with a strong support of friends out live those with a smaller circle by 22%.  See friends/family it is in our DNA to benefit from friendship.

Most of us will never save a life by running into a burning building or jumping in front of a bus to save another, but science now shows us that we can extend some one's life by just being a part of their life. Are you a good friend? Ask yourself these simple 6 little questions and answer them as truthful as you can. I call this a self evaluation.
1) Are you there for the friends in your life? 2) Do you feel comfortable being vulnerable & open with them? 3) Do you ask for what you need from your friends? 4) Do you give them what they need? 5) Do you know the song of a friends heart & what makes them tick? 6) Do they know yours?

The happiness of our friends is infectious and breads a more positive attitude on life. Be the change you want to see in others and in the world. Stop complaining and do something, be the solution not the problem!!

As always please remember to keep all the men and woman of our military covered in prayer for their save return one day soon. As they are off protecting our HEALTHY FREEDOMS. And any of those that are struggling with something life has thrown their way. God bless.