Friendship for me is not what I take from others, but what I am able to give to others - not so much the material gifts but as the gifts of compassion, sincerity and understanding. Friendship is not a game we play. I have to have time for my friend. I must make myself available in the time of need. Being available means...to take an initiative, write a letter, make a phonecall, send an email, stop for just a visit; even if it isn't my 'turn'. There are 'no turns' in friendship. Being available means altering my own plans to accommodate to listen - not only to what a friend is saying but what a friend is not saying or is trying to say but cannot.
