A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity – Proverbs 17:17
“I’ll stand by you/I’ll stand by you/Won’t let nobody hurt you/I’ll stand by you” (by the Pretenders). “Count on me through thick and thin/A friendship that will never end/When you are weak, I will be strong/Helping you to carry on/Call on me, I will be there/Don’t be afraid/Please believe me when I say/Count on” (by Whitney Houston and Cece Winans). “Thank you for being a friend/Traveled down a road and back again/Your heart is true, you’re a pal and a confidant” (by Andrew Gold).
The opening choruses were the ones that came to mind as I pondered friendships, as each one expresses a critical element to any sustaining relationship: devotion. The “I’ll stand by you” demonstrates unwavering support. The “Helping you to carry on” assures a dependable presence. And the “Your heart is true” speaks of someone genuine and trustworthy. These qualities, which I consider to be the glue, can be traced in the friendships of Ruth and Naomi, and David and Jonathan, and every friendship that seeks a lasting existence.
I heard it said that real friendships require work. It is about showing up for one another and giving your best, even when the job gets hard. Most importantly, it requires the right glue so the bond won’t break.