April - FRIENDSHIP
Friendships are unique relationships because, unlike family relationships, we choose to enter into them. And unlike other voluntary bonds, such as marriage, they lack a formal structure. You wouldn’t go months without speaking with or seeing your significant other (hopefully), but you might go that long without contacting a friend.
The purpose of this conversation is to explore the expectations and values we hold about friendship. Not all friendships are going to be lifelong but all relationships deserve to be healthy regardless of their duration. When a friendship comes to a close, we have a choice to make. We can choose to wallow in the emotions and become a watered-down version of ourselves, or we can decide to rise above the situation and grow from what happened. Choosing to grow from a friendship is the most mature decision that a person can make.
At this point in your life, do you have more or less time for friends?
When was the last time you initiated a new friendship? What happened?
What are the signs a friendship is ending?
Ending a friendship can hurt. Is there a sorrow you still carry from a broken friendship?
Which is more your choice - being pals with a guy? Casual friendships, nothing intense? Several close women friends? A dog or horse?
Are your best friendships exclusive or open?
What are your rituals for quality time with a friend?
Consider setting an intention that would serve a relationship you have with a friend. Write it on stationary or in a journal, to read it again and be reminded.
What are your takeaways from this conversation?