About Friends

A man should recognize among his acquaintances those with whom he should associate and those with whom he should not.

The ones with whom a man should not associate are those who are greedy, clever talkers, flatterers or wasters.

The one with whom he should associate are those who are helpful, who are willing to share happinesses as well as sufferings, who give good advice and who have a sympathetic heart.

A true friend, the one with whom a man may safely associate, will always stick closely to the right way, will worry secretly about his friend's welfare, will console him in misfortune, will offer him a helping hand when he needs it, will keep his secrets, and will always give him good advice.

It is very difficult to find a friend like this, and, therefore, one should try very hard to be a friend like this. As the sun warms the fruitful earth, so a good friend shines in society because of his good deeds.

[The above is from The Teaching of Buddha.]