Philosophy on Life: Don’t Expect Perfection

It’s impossible for friends to be GREAT all the time. People are people. I try hard to look at the big picture. Most of us will put up with a lot more from our families than we will from our friends. I think about my sister, brother, and even my dad: I have given them many “passes.” I have learned that life is a lot more fun, and friends last for a lifetime, when you give them the similar “pass” you give your family. In other words, we all fall short of being perfect.

An example: You love your college friend, Maggie. She is smart, fun, loyal—and has been in your life for decades. But she will drive you nuts (occasionally), as she just can’t keep her mouth shut. So, you could cut her out of your life (and you would be the loser), or you can accept her for who she is and try to be sensitive about what information you share. I certainly am grateful when my friends give me a “pass” for an ill-timed comment or mistake I’ve made.

When you really enjoy people the majority of the time, that is pretty darn good. Of course, there are things that will make you drop people from your lives; your deal-breaker might be drug usage or deceit. But try giving friends that “pass.” It can make you a whole lot happier if you just let some things go.