Friendship

I'm a horrible friend these days. No, really, I am.

I take more than I give;
I talk more than I listen;
I seek support more than I offer support;
I cry more than I smile;
I forget more than I remember;
I beg forgiveness more than I lend it;
I request more hugs than I provide.
I expect acknowledgement more than I offer it.

I'm sure I could make that list longer.  I'm sure I've offended each of you in some way lately.  I'm sure I didn't even notice when I offended or neglected some of you recently.  I'm sorry.  So very sorry.
I could list a million reasons - likely legit ones - about why I have or haven't done the things a good friend should.  BUT, that's what the problem is.  No matter what I have going on in my life, I want to be the kind of friend that you deserve.  I want to be the kind of friend that smiles in the worst of times & offers a shoulder despite the need for one myself.  So this, my dear friends, is my public apology.  If you're reading this & wondering if I am referring to you, then the answer is yes.  You are so precious to me & every part of your life's story is important to me.  I love you.
Today I will start working harder.  I'll give more, listen better, offer greater support, smile when I see your lovely face, remember the things that matter to you, forgive your faults, hug you closer, & acknowledge every precious thing about you.