Widows are hurting and they need true friends that care about them.  Do you have true friends that you can depend on?  Here are a few questions to help you rate your friendships:

1. Do they call or come see you, or do they always expect you to reach out first?
2. Are they good listeners, or do they talk more about themselves?
3. Are they loyal and guard your secrets?
4. Do they practice unsolicited acts of kindness for you?
5. Can they enjoy any good fortune that may come your way?
6. If you have a disagreement, can you ask for and receive forgiveness?
7. Do they never tell jokes that slander others or criticize in public?
8. Can you be yourself – don’t put on a mask to get them to be with you?
9. Do they seek to understand your grief?
10. Do they listen to your broken heart, not just to your words?

  Widows need to talk about their broken heart without fear of judgement or their confidence being shared without their permission. Tips to find a confidant you can trust:

• First and most important it has to be someone you trust.
• They can keep a confidence.
• They will respect your boundaries.
• You will get another perspective from them.
• They have the wisdom and experience to advice you.
• They share the same valves you have.
• You get support and encouragement without feeling criticized.

Nothing will ruin a true friendship quicker than a loose tongue.  The only things they should be passing on to others are:

1. True facts
2. Kind comments
3. Things that are necessary only to tell
4. Comments that are beneficial to all concerned
5. Only what you have given them permission to share

If the five comments above are not followed then they are not the true friend you want in your life.