Be a Friend to Gain a Friend

Am I my brother’s keeper? This question has been asked throughout history. Brotherly love has always been something of a mystery. Let’s search it out.

Philos

This is the Greek word for brotherly love. This is the relationship formed between two people who care for each other deeply but there is no sexual component. But, be warned. The connection between two people in this type of relationship can be just as passionate and possibly volatile when tested.

But, we digress here. What you want to know is how to cultivate brotherly love. The relationships between siblings is the most common example of this but that is born of birth and not choice. They enhance our lives but what about when there is no blood relation? Having a group of girlfriends to share good times or going out with the guys adds value to your life.

Finding Brotherly Love

Seeking out friends is similar to finding a partner. It is highly uncommon that they will just appear on your doorstep. You have to be in the best place to find people.

First though, define the traits that you look for in a friend: kindness, level-headedness, outgoing nature, common interests. Opposites do attract but it is the things you have in common that bind you together at a deeper level. Opposition makes the relationship interesting.

What type of person are you? In order to find what you seek, you have to give off that same vibe. Sound familiar? Think of the Law of Attraction. You may not believe in it but it does have some merit. Smile; learn to carry on a conversation; learn to listen to others; be yourself.

Know if you can be a friend to others. It may take you some time if you are introverted, but you can still find good solid friends you can trust. Remember to be as discerning when choosing your friends as you are when choosing a mate. There are bad apples in every bunch.

So, how do you find these friends, given your interests and personality? You will have to put yourself out there. Unless you talk to people, you won’t get to know them. In worst cases, they could think you are standoffish and avoid you.

Here are a few places to run into your new mates:

• Work – Get to know the people you are around for most of your waking hours each day.
• Sports – Join a gym or a local athletic league to play your favorite sport and be around people with similar interests.
• Volunteer organizations – When you come together to assist others, you can develop a kinship with people who find satisfaction in doing the same.
• Church – The environment is already friendly and inviting, you just need to put yourself out there.

Brotherly love enhances your life in ways that sexual love cannot. Learn to be a friend in order to have cherished friends for life.

“But friendship is precious, not only in the shade, but in the sunshine of life; and thanks to a benevolent arrangement of things, the greater part of life is sunshine.”

-          Thomas Jefferson

We at iamgr8ful appreciate you reading & commenting on this article.