Friendships and Other Things

Do you ever really ask yourself what makes a good friend? Do you simply observe what your closest friends are like and consider those traits as "good" friend qualities? And are you a good friend yourself in return?

Ew, vague answers. I hate them. They're like what your high school counselor asks you when you come to her seeking answers to why no one likes you...and this isn't from personal experience -- seriously. So why am I asking? Well, I guess it's because I've never really had a good circle of friends growing up. My parents always warned me during my early school years that I needed to be a friend to get a friend -- sounds pretty simple, huh? However, now that seems like such a wise thing to live by. I think all humans are inately selfish; I think I am one of the worst at times. Lately I've been realiving I haven't been giving some people the time of day. I think that I assume (however would never admit it openly) that whatever conversation, interaction, or relationship I build with someone needs to directly benifit me. Now that is selfish. Ah, it feels terrible!

I guess the reason I bring all this up is because I'm going on a missions trip this spring. We will be working hands-on with the homeless, the mentally handicapped, and just plain unattractive people. I don't want my selfishness to be a problem for us. I would love to throw out the cliche right now that I need to "swallow my pride" -- but I'll refrain. I think I need to seriously reevaluate my priorities right now. It's a new semester and already it feels like spring could be upon us. Things look promising amidst my usual Debby Downer attitude -- now nice! Maybe we'll see some progress during these coming weeks...