Where I live, work and worship are integral to my routine.  My neighbors and I trade hellos. Coworkers and I meet deadlines. I share hugs and a hymn with fellow church members.  But in each case, the people would show up whether I was there or not.

Because fellowship forms through what we have in common. But friendship embraces what makes each of us unique.

It says l am here for you.  It’s a commitment towards a connection beyond our similarities.

Whether one person is distressed or the other person is living their dream, friends venture into what frames each other’s existence.  But once we stand in the frame, how will we contribute to the space?

As friends share laughs, offer help or ask each other for advice, the quality of the connection impacts us.

I love a straight-talker with a sense of humor. But other friends are great listeners who say more with their actions. Just as no two people are like, no two friendships are like.

Our differences with friends may challenge us; but they can also inspire us. Because friendship is an uncommon gift. At its best, it brings out the best in you and me.

As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. – Proverbs 27:17 NLT

This post is part of my "Lessons I've Learned About Life (so far)" series for the #write31days challenge. To find out more start here.