When You Know Better, Do Better ~ Maya Angelou

“Friends… they cherish one another’s hopes. They are kind to one another’s dreams.”

~ Henry David Thoreau

 

The holiday season is upon us! I don’t know about you, but the holidays have snuck up on me and we still need to get the tree (and decorate it) and buy some presents! We’ve really have cut back over the years on gift giving and focus more on spending time with friends and family.  Of course the kids will get presents but what really leaves a lasting impression is the time you spend with those you care about.

 

It got me thinking about the people in my life who have really stood by me and made the time for me – even when I wasn’t necessarily being the friend I should have been to them due to things going on in my life.  But this, too they understood and didn’t and don’t pass judgement on me.  They are there to lend an ear when needed and offer advice if asked.  These friends who stand by you through thick and thin are the ones you need to hold onto!  We are all busy and feel overwhelmed from time to time.  But make time for those who make time for you.  This holiday season (and throughout the year) let these people in your life know how much they mean to you.

 

 

Some ways to show you value them.  It has less to do with what you give them as these acts of kindness show you do care. 

Pick some flowers from your garden and drop them off at their doorstep.

Write a nice note letting them know what it is that you value about their friendship.

Give them a call to check in on them.

Even a text letting them know you are thinking of them can bring a smile to their face.

Send a funny meme to give them a laugh – especially if you know they are going through a tough time.

Buy them a book of inspirational quotes.

Take them out for a coffee.

Bake them their favorite sweet.

Cook a meal for them.

Host a party for your favorites pals!

Go out for a girls-night out.

 

 

And most importantly, support their dreams!  These acts of kindness are so treasured!  A couple years ago, a friend put down a bid at our school’s fundraiser for one of my books that I had donated to the event.  Her son was a little older and she didn’t really need to buy the book but just showing that she cared enough to show support for me and my dreams stuck with me!  I’ve met some absolutely amazing women over the years through the book industry, dandelion moms website, other bloggers, moms at at school,  and I try to support their dreams and provide words of encouragement whenever I can.

I know what it feels likes like when someone doesn’t show support for your dreams so I try to go out of my way to congratulate friends on new positions, jobs, goals they fulfilled, etc., and be the best friend I can be. Build those friendships dandelions!  You might find them to be your lifeline when going through tough times.  And then in turn, you can be theirs if they need you.

What are ways you like to show your friends you care?

 

 

 

 

0