Authentic Friendship

I must be a rare breed.

Growing up, I was constantly picked on from my classmates. I've had so many "fair weather" friends, I really should be a weatherman. I was the "average" guy in school. Never did anything really outstanding. Never was athletic, never had any interest in competing for anything... I just enjoy life.

Those who think they know me always seem certain I'm an extrovert. But in actuality, I do not feed upon being the center of attention. In fact, I'm quite uncomfortable with it. I can survive if I'm placed in a situation where the spotlight is focused upon me. I don't get convulsions or start gagging for air. I can hold my own pretty much. I've spoken at 8th Grade graduations and I've been on a stage with over 70,000 people in the audience.

I've been with celebrities and I've actually interviewed a United States Senator for a radio program.

Alone.

In my own car.

With no one else around.

As I drove him to the airport.

But, I really prefer a small circle of friends. Not just friends in the general term. Bur friends. Authentic friends. I have more acquaintences than I can possibly imagine. But I only have a very few friends. And, I am deathly loyal to them.

That's probably because I had so few friends who were loyal to me as a kid growing up.

I particularly gravitate toward friends of my own gender. Not that gal friends are not as cool. I need them, too. They provide a unique companionship that helps me understand a side of life that I rarely understand. But my "guy friends" are people who really understand ME. They are my "bosum buddies".

And, I don't have a problem being authentic around them...nor they around me. I mean I don't have a problem becoming very personal with them. And if that means having the freedom to express emotions in verbal or non-verbal means, then so be it. I don't have a problem with it. Because they are my authentic friends.

I used to be driven to junior high by my Dad. And, each morning (in the face of those other "cool" guys) I would boldly give my Dad a kiss on his cheek before I left. I have no shame about this. And neither did he. I have no shame if the situation calls for me to place my arm around my authentic friend...or to hug him...or to hold him. It's nothing sexual (you perverts out there...get that out of your dirty little mind). It's friendship.

Authentic Friendship.

It is a rare gem. It has great value. And it is only reserved for those who authentically deserve it. It is the most person thing I can give to someone. It is the real me.