Many months ago, an email arrived in my inbox, one which stood out from the standard “forwards” I regularly receive from my friends.

This email defined friendships; and the words were memorable.

Yesterday, as I contemplated the many topics that I could cover during the month of January, in keeping with the theme of “friends”, the NaBloPoMo theme for the month, I wondered if I still had a copy of the old email.

My wondering soon came to an end, however, when another copy of the same email arrived late last night, not surprisingly from a very dear friend who lives on the other side of the world from me! (That was a case of the Law of Attraction at its best!!)

The email defines the various friends who find us during the journey of our lives, dividing the friendships into three categories ~ those who are there for a Reason, a Season or a Lifetime.

When Someone is in Your Life for a Reason

When a friend appears in your life for a reason, they are there to meet a need you have at that time, such as to offer their guidance and support throughout the course of a difficulty you may be experiencing.

They seem to be sent by God, to assist you during a physical, emotional or spiritual difficulty.

Then, without warning, something happens to bring the friendship to an end.

They leave your life, perhaps due to an argument you have with them. The reason for them appearing in your life has been fulfilled, your prayers have been answered and it is time for them to move on.

When Someone is in Your Life for a Season

When a friend comes into your life for a season, it is your turn to help, enabling you to share, grow or learn.

This friend is likely to bring peace, happiness and laughter to your life, in huge doses!

Believe in the friendship, it is very real, but only for a season.

Lifetime Friendships

The purpose of lifetime friendships is to teach you lessons which will last a lifetime, lessons to be built upon for a solid emotional foundation.

It is your job to love this friend, accept these lessons and put what you have learned from them to use, in all of the other areas and relationships of your life.

Friendship is a Two-Way Street

As I read through the email, it occurred to me that friendship is most definitely a two-way street. Friends are not in your life to only satisfy your needs and to help you grow.

To be classified as a genuine friendship you also must share with your friend your love, support, encouragement and loyalty.

Only then will you fully appreciate and realise the full extent of genuine friendship, no matter whether the person is in your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime.