<Author>Aaron</Author>
<Topic>On Making Friends</Topic>
<Source></Source>
<Nationality>USA</Nationality>
As a human being, one can hardly do without a friend. Friends are necessary for many reasons. They provide companionship, support in times of need, and understanding when one has a problem. It is also important that one be selective in determining friends, so as to choose true friends instead of mere acquaintances or those who use people as means to ends.
The Chinese philosopher Confucius explained that the goal of every worthy man was to become a junzi, or enlightened gentleman. A gentleman should seek to develop authentic, appropriate relations with others. He must do this through a combination of rite and attitude.
In modern times, a true friend can be said to be a manifestation of a Confucian junzi. A true friend should give support in difficult times as well as good times. He or she should correct, but not scold, when one does wrong. He or she should never betray or gossip about another, or exploit anyone for purposes of gain.
I have many acquaintances, but few true friends. My principles for making friends are based on the above paragraph. This may guarantee my having few friends, but I would rather live in truth than have many false friends. I apply the same principles of friendship to myself, but I often do not live up to them. I hope, with continued effort, I can always live by my principles.