Traits of Treasured Friends

I have been blessed with family and friends that I consider family.  While interacting with people who have blessed my life immeasurably, I've discovered attributes that I try to emulate.

1. "It's not my story to tell."  No matter what anyone shares, good news, bad news, heartache, worry or even just their shoe size...it is their story to tell.  
2. "I don't need to know the end of the story." I had a friend that was going through some significant struggles. She was blessed that loved ones who had broken her heart, apologized and she was in the process of repairing the relationship. She told me that she knew I'd expect to hear what happened. I told her I didn't need to hear it unless she wanted to talk about it. I never heard the end of the story and that's just fine. It wasn't about the story, it was about being there for her.
3. "Just need marching orders." Some people need to talk, others just need to be loved. I don't need to know why my help is needed or the specifics of the problem. I can help without knowing details. I can pray and ask Heavenly Father to bless my friend with exactly what is needed. 
4. "Let them talk." We were blessed with two ears and one mouth. 
5. "Celebrate their Joy." Blessings come to each of us at different times in our lives. I truly love someone when I am happy for them.
6. "Be there when it matters." At some of the saddest times in my life, dear friends are quietly there, some in body, some in spirit, some through prayer.
7. "Invite, don't announce." Offer suggestions or help, but respect their choice to accept it or not. 
8. "Listen to understand."

“A friend is one to whom one may pour out the contents of one's heart, chaff and grain together, knowing that gentle hands will take and sift it, keep what is worth keeping, and with a breath of kindness, blow the rest away.”

          ― George Eliot