Why do we become friends with certain people? Why do we get frustrated with each other, even when we really like the person? Why are we all so different in how we approach the same problem? What makes it worth the work over time? Keep reading. Which side of the fence are you on?
Dear Introverted Friend (or IF for short),
We’ve been friends a long time (It’s really difficult to say how long, actually).
I considered you my friend the minute we met… but you seem to think our friendship began much, much later. I suppose you needed more time to get to know me. You wanted to be sure I was worth the effort.
I know it was effort for you to socialize with me until we got to know each other better. Groups have never been your ideal outing. They drain all your IF energy. You are interested in meeting new people but it takes a lot of energy to really enjoy it. I know you join me for a lot of group socializing and some of my wild ideas for our friendship. IF, I appreciate that. I get energized just thinking about meeting new people! I love talking to new people! There are so many great people to get to know and so little time! I’m really glad you can stay so calm.
You have a unique view of the world (well, it’s different than mine…).
That’s actually one of the things I like about you. You remind me of the joy of a quiet hike in the woods or up a mountain. A whole morning can be spent on finding a fun little cafe off the beaten and busy path while we sit and read the paper, sharing sections and discussing current events. You inspire me, while walking for miles on an empty beach looking for…nothing. We just walk because we can. A walk without an end goal is a new concept to me. I’m going to keep trying. I think, IF, your end goal is to relax and be present. Are you trying to teach me that?
You are a better listener than I am (Did you say something?).
I really hope I learn to listen to other people someday. I mean, truly hear what they are saying even if it doesn’t match their words. It can be hard for me to stop socializing and sharing my happiness with the whole room long enough to listen! You are so good at that. You make anyone you are talking to feel understood and cared about. Probably because you are using the correct ratio of one mouth vs. two ears. I sometimes stop talking and wonder how you are still interested. Then I remember to ask you a question. See? I’m slowly getting this listening thing.
Well, I see a moving truck coming down the street. I need to go welcome the new neighbors.
See, IF, you can relax for a while and I will talk (I mean listen) to you later…
Your EB (Extroverted Buddy)
As I write this letter to my friend, now I see how God has used my “IF” as a method of sanctification in my life. He has used many of my friends in different ways to shape me, over time, into my full potential. I’m still a work in progress, for sure!
I guess I need these people in my life.
The post Being Friends; your my IF, I’m your EB appeared first on Salty Life Mom.