Definition of Friend

Websters Dictionary gives the definition of a friend as this:

Main Entry:

¹friend

Pronunciation:

\ˈfrend\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English frend, from Old English frēond; akin to Old High German friunt friend, Old English frēon to love, frēo free

Date:

before 12th century

1 a: one attached to another by affection or esteem b: acquaintance2 a: one that is not hostile b: one that is of the same nation, party, or group3: one that favors or promotes something (as a charity)4: a favored companion5capitalized : a member of a Christian sect that stresses Inner Light, rejects sacraments and an ordained ministry, and opposes war —called also Quaker

— friend·less \ˈfren(d)-ləs\ adjective

— friend·less·ness noun

— be friends with

: to have a friendship or friendly relationship with

So I guess that kind of sums it up. But for me, it goes a lot further, a lot deeper. I am one of those people ( if you are someone who knows me, you know this, this is for those of you who are just random readers...crossing my fingers I am reaching at least a FEW) who is very content to just be with my husband, my family, or by myself. However, when I DO find someone who can see past my exterior, and see that I am not a witch, or rude, snotty, snooty, or anything else like that, I am very glad.

You see, I like friends. I miss having a close girlfriend, who GETS me, and will call me, just because she's bored and thought of me. I mean, that's just me. Can I live without these friends? Yes. I can and I do. I can name maybe one person aside from my husband and anyone in my family who is close enough to me that I would call them "friend". Aquaintance yes. Friend, no.

I've had several people who have called me friend, or let me call them friend. Most of these people are around for a few short months, only to have some fun and laughs. When things get serious, they hit the road. For example, I had a FRIEND, who was basically around all summer one year, due to how my husband and I lived our lives. When we decided to start going back to church, that friend came over once, and then left. I heard from him about a year later. When I told another friend that we were changing our lifestyle, and following God, he was sad the lifestyle was ending, but was very supportive. I still talk to him today. That's a friend. Someone who supports you even if they don't understand, or they don't approve. Someone who is there when you call.

I have several people who only call me when they feel guilty, or they need advice. I don't call them friends. Some of them are people who have used me, and run me over, only for me to pick myself up, and say, "Okay, I am here if you need me."

Now, don't get me wrong. I am by NO stretch of the imagination a perfect person. I do try to be a good friend.

I take that back. I said I can name one or two people aside from Aaron. I can name three more. But they aren't people. And their love is unconditional. My dogs, Beau, Bubba, and Bugsy, want nothing from me but love and attention. And they will give all they have in return. If I want to play, they'll play. If I want to snuggle, they'll snuggle.

They are down for anything, and there when I need them.

Why can't humans be more like dogs? Always accepting, always supporting. Why do they need to have ulterior motives?

As far as I am concerned, I have all I need. I may long for a girlfriend to call, or whatever. But I don't need one. I have Beau here. All I have to do is say her name.

And my friend comes running, anxious to hear what I have to say.