5 Ways to Be a Better Friend!

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Brunch Lady and my Brunch Series books are celebrations of friendship. I’m counting down to my next book launch for my novel Bridal Brunch, with my beloved Sunday Brunch characters: Lexi, Jewel, Capri, Jermane and Angel. As well as gearing up to celebrate 15 years since the launch of Sunday Brunch, the first novel in  the series. It has truly been a special journey. During this time I also had a chance to reflect on how special my friends truly are. Some have come for a season, a reason or a lifetime. Sometimes in our superwomen quests we may take our friends for granted. So during my personal prayer time I asked God to share some ways we can all become a better friend! So here are a few of those nuggets!

1) Be sensitive to those awe inspiring, overachieving women in your circles! You know the ones that are always there for her girls. Whether organizing a birthday brunch, offering a listening ear or prayer they’re our forever faithful shoulder. But sometimes those that are strongest are the least likely to seek much needed support. Perhaps its pride or selflessness but they struggle the most with asking for help! For these stubborn sister-friends, you must be vigilant! Make sure your support, love, prayers and listening ear are reciprocal! Treat this kind of friend like the gem that she is!

Time to act: If you have a friend like this in your circle call and say, “Hey I was just thinking of you. How is everything going? You’re always giving and supporting others, just wanted you to know if you ever need me, I’m here.  What can I help with?"

2) Know your friends well enough to give the right gifts! Just because you like Tiffany’s and MAC products, doesn’t mean she does. Your bestie may need a day at the spa, a few new books to add to her “avid readers” collection, or simply a “kid free” afternoon. Be creative, thoughtful and sincere.

Time to Act: Make a gift journal for friends and family. Jot down interests, activities, and specific products they mention. So the next time your gift can be personal. This is also a great way to take the much needed focus off us!

3) Call your friend and specifically ask if there are any prayer needs. You don’t have to spend all day in the prayer closet, just keep her close to your heart during your personal prayer time. Remember when you sow seeds in prayer for others, it will bless you too.

Time to Act: Reach out to a friend you have not spoken to in a while. Ask her if she has any prayer requests and always operate in discretion. Let God know He can trust you with a prayer!

4) Celebrate her victories and encourage her during those times of disappointment. Be the refreshing spirit, the living water and the well spring of life. Always be ready to water a seed and watch it bloom. Sometimes it’s a little difficult to celebrate others in their season of harvest when we’re seemingly in the desert. But we can do all things through Christ. When we make a habit of it, our waiting time is more pleasant.

Time to Act: If you feel hints of jealousy during a friend’s season of “breakthrough and blessings” go to God with honesty and transparency. Let Him work on it! Be intentional with your sister celebrations!

5) Let your friends know how much you appreciate them. Not just on birthdays or holidays. Send an e-card or text. Better yet, pick up the phone or drop a card in the mail. Handwritten notes are keepsakes and always put a smile on the receiver’s face. T

Time to Act: Go to a stationary store and find the most beautiful card you can and write a note to a special friend or family member today! Keep stamps in your purpose just for this reason!xoxo

Norma L. Jarrett
Author and Creator of Brunch Lady
Beautiful You, Beautiful Friends, Beautiful Life (w/Christ!)
www.normajarrett.net