A Document from MySkylines, Express Yourself - Issue 07

Friends
How many friends do you have ?  Which do you think is better, having many friends or just a few very close ones? Do you think your friends would stay with you if you were in trouble? you know people say, "A friend can't be known in prosperity." A lot of those who say this claim that their conclusion is based on personal experience of losing a supposed friend when they were in a difficult situation. If so, it seems friendship is more a matter of social convenience than character or shared interest. However, others can point to unexpected support during a serious crisis from someone whom they did not expect to be a good friend. So I guess the question of friendship can cut both ways: in some cases it is mere lip service and in others it is genuine commitment.

cust both ways : have or result in advantages as well as disadvantages
lip service : insincere claims of friendship, admiration, support, etc.
commitment : a strong or firm belief shown by one's actions; loyalty

Comprehension
1. Why do you suppose "a friend can't be known in prosperity"?
2. Who is most likely to say that?
3. Are any counter-examples given? If so, what?

Express Yourself
1. Why do people need to make friends?
2. Is it okay for your spouse to have friends of the opposite sex?
3. How did you meet your best friend?
4. What usually causes trouble between friends?
5. What is the most important thing in maintaining a harmonious friendship?
6. Do you believe the saying, "Out of sight, out of mind"?
7. What's the difference having male and female friends?
8. What's the difference between the friends you made in elementary, middle and high school, and college?
9. Do you tell your friends everything about your private life?

Opinion Samples
1. Friendship often turns soure because of money problems. People think it's okay to lend money to a friend, but when they try to get the money back they become estranged. My point is this:"Lend money to your friend if you want to lose them both."
2. As in marriage, understanding is the most important thing in friendship. Having a friend means that you may often be angry, hurt, even disappointed by your friend. Whenever you are in such a situation, you must be "ready" to understand your friend, however. If not, the friendship will break up sooner than later. Without understanding, you can't overcome the ups and downs of any relationship.