A Good Friend Is An Honest Friend

Photo by Akbar Nemati on Unsplash

Friends are plentiful, but good friends are truly a treasure. What makes a person a good friend, you ask? Someone who is encouraging, attentive, respectful, and dependable would definitely fit this description; however, one crucial trait of a solid friend is often purposefully overlooked–honesty. A good friend tells the truth even if it hurts, and many avoid these kinds of friends, often to protect their delicate egos or avoid rejection. However, honesty is paramount in a healthy relationship, and constructive criticism or a frank perspective often lead to new understanding in a situation or goal. So even though the honest feedback of a comrade might sting, just remember that it will do you more harm than good, and the person giving it to you is truly a good friend! 

For some, taking constructive criticism is easy, but dishing it out is hard. Many are afraid to hurt other people’s feelings, and so they gloss over negativity or simply don’t address problems with their friends. This can be destructive if the friend in question is practicing unsafe habits, hoping for honest feedback, or simply in need of a reality check. For those who fall in this category, just remember that truly constructive words won’t hurt the person. If they melt and call off the friendship, know that they were never a true companion, and for those that listen and joyfully accept your words of wisdom, know that you have a gem of a friend in your life!

From now on, remember that honesty is an integral aspect of a good friendship, and that even though the truth may hurt, it is better to hear and accept in the long run, whether you are the messenger or the receiver! 

-Henrietta’s Creations Kid Blogger