By Steve Gahagen

In our new world of social distancing, it is a great time to think about what we truly need in friends. Do we have friends who are life-giving, even if from a distance?

Introverts and dogs are doing pretty well during this time of isolation. Dogs have no idea what just happened, but they are enjoying the extra walks and attention. I had an introvert tell me this week that she was loving the social distancing. But if an introvert is stuck in a house crowded with people, that might not be so fun.

We know relationships have a profound impact on the direction of our lives. I once heard a leadership speaker say, “Show me your friends and what you’re reading, and I’ll show you your future.” When we speak of peer pressure we often think of adolescents. But peer pressure influences all of us in every season of life. The people we hang around affect who we become. You cannot improve yourself if you choose to live your life with those who would settle for less.

This forced COVID-19 pause provides space for us to reflect on our relationships. Who are our friends and what kind of friend are we trying to be?

“Friends For life” may invoke the image of life-long friends. But here as I write “friends for life,” I have in mind the image of friends who breathe life into us - friends who are life-giving, friends who challenge us to write our best story. And, of course, we must do the same for them. My guess is that not many people would say they have friends like this.

Here are a few statements to help you evaluate your friendship circle. On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate the truth of each statement (1 = not true and 10 = very true).

1. When I am with my friends, I generally feel more alive.

2. My friends challenge me to improve and to become my best.

3. My friends encourage me to be positive and look for good.

4. I am confident my friends would sacrifice for my good.

5. My friends desire to be healthy and fulfill their potential.

6. My friends would challenge me if they thought I was headed in the wrong direction.

Reach out to five people and tell them how they have used their talents to be a life-giving gift to you. You will infuse them with an unexpected gift and become more alive yourself.