Cycle 4 Session 20 - Identifying Friendships

Self-Reflection Questions

WHO decides when casual talking has become a friendship?

WHAT kind of friend are you?

WHERE are some places you've met people that could have become friends?

WHY is it important to set clear boundaries in friends?

WHEN someone no longer wants to be your friend, what should you do?

HOW often should friends interact? Why?

Lasting Friendships – These are your Actual friends. You can be your true self around them.  They have proven their loyalty over the test of time.  They have non-judgmental, unconditional love for you. Some people refer to this friend as your "ride and die" (lol). These friends are like family and will walk with you throughout life. These friends you can trust with your deepest thoughts and feelings. This is a true 50/50 relationship; each person is giving their all. Reciprocity is not a question in this friendship. 

Seasonal Friendships – These are the friends you may have met because a situation brought you together. You may have even shared some special moments. But mostly talk about the things or situations you'll have in common. These friendships are limited and can end when the common interest or situation changes. Sometimes, depending on the bond that was formed, these friendships can also grow into lasting friendships over time. Otherwise, these friendships will only be for a season. 

Reason Friendship – These are friends that you have a Common enemy with. It can also be looked at as a business-based friendship. These friends may have your back while fighting the enemy. They are always there for the fight. They tend to lean towards negativity. However, you may become the victim if you ever fall on the wrong side of the fence or change your way of thinking. Be watchful of how they treat others because one day it can be you.

Lesson Ships - These people are mostly the ones benefiting from this relationship. You are often left feeling drained or have a feeling of loss after spending time with them. They are usually not genuine. You can't be yourself around them. It's a 20/80 exchange ratio, and it's very clear that you are the one losing. You will benefit from having them out of your life. They are there to get what they can get out of you. When you stop giving (whatever that is), they will find somewhere else to go. However, be alert, they will come back to see if they can suck something, anything else out of you. These people are in your life for a reason. For you to learn how to set boundaries and balance in your life. 

Self-Reflection Points

• The keys to having any friendship are knowing who’s who and keeping everyone in their lanes. 

• People can change from one type of friend to another. But generally, people are who they show you they are. 

• Family members don't automatically fit into a friendship type. 

• Most importantly, to keep a great friend, you must be a great friend in return. Treat people how you want to be treated.

"For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them" Matthew 18:20. Holy Bible