Where's the line?

What does it mean to call someone a friend? Where do you have to draw the line from personal to business? These questions are important to consider when I think of my friendships. As a person, am I being congruent between my real friendships and those actions I take because of professional duties? There can be a disconnect there.

That's the struggle sometimes. I have had to make some difficult decisions that have brought serious consequences. I have had to trust others' confidences to me that they are also doing right. In this world today, it is hard to tell, but my gut has to lead me. I am grateful to those who share their trust with me and from that have formed meaningful friendships. Even though we move through the struggle, if we are moving for the right reasons, it will be worth it.

My nature is to be a supporter. I think we all want to be positive and see the world through rose-colored glasses. Unfortunately, life gets in the way! I have learned that I have had to choose where to place my support. It has to be where I think it's right. Sometimes, others disagree with me. That's ok. What a dull world this would be if we all agreed on everything. I wouldn't ever learn anything!

My core values will never change, especially the Golden Rule..."Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." I want to treat people the way that I expect to be treated.... with honesty. If someone betrays that trust, then our friendship is changed.

So, I guess what I'm trying to say is that there isn't always a line. Life cannot be black and white. Like the waves in the sand, the line is always changing, but the water's wet and sometimes brings stuff with it. Life moves forward, but it's not always predictable. We have to have some grey areas to maneuver, but within that maneuvering you have to keep your core values of being one who can be trusted, loyal, and honest. It's your reputation. Guard it and make sure that it is the reputation you want to follow you. You have to keep your friends' backs too. Without that what's the point of being a friend?

Keep open to listening to different opinions and supporting what you feel best matches your own. Without them the world would be a dull place!