True friends will tell us the truth, even when it hurts. They will warn us if our drinking is becoming a problem, a romance too passionate, or a cult is seducing us. I don't worry about young people who have good friends. Not only will they provide enjoyable and enriching companionship for each other, they will look out for one another. They will stand by each other during difficult times.
Children generally make friends effortlessly.
But as we become more self-conscious, friendships do not always blossom so spontaneously. As a result, many of us are left feeling lonely, our need and desire for friends unfulfilled. That pain can motivate me to overcome my fear and inertia, and go out into situations where I am more likely to meet the kind of people I might like to have as friends. And when I meet such people, loneliness can get me to dare to extend my hand, and heart, in friendship. The pain of loneliness can also give me the courage to look within and take honest stock of myself.