Deliberate Friendliness

In high school, I had some of the best friends in the world. We all hated each other and loved each other and gossiped about each other and knew each other inside out. I'm still friends with those people today, in that we-were-best-friends-in-high-school way and therefore-we-will-always-have-a-close-bond.

In college, I had the best friend I've ever ever had. No one will replace her. But in general, the people I hung out with in college weren't the closest people I've ever known. We didn't really know each other, and I couldn't tell you hardly anything about them. They are perhaps quite close to one another (though maybe not), but more or less, we were all just acquaintances/friends who had similar interests.

When I moved here, I decided to be deliberate and make friends that were really for me. Sound selfish? I hope not. Because I also want to make friends with whom I am really right for as well. I want to make friendships that last with people who I never need to hate or want to gossip about. I desire friendships that are deep and meaningful and experiential and beneficial to us all.

I have picked out three main targets:

Jonathan and Sarah. You, I'm afraid, are the main targets. Watch out for more Scott and Lori. We very much like you. It might even be love. (But the heart is deceitful and desperately wicked; who can know it? Your taste in board games is frankly quite disappointing.) Along with you, beware, Ashley and Bryce. I don't know how long you intend to stay in Scotland so you could possibly be heart breakers, but beware anyway. You are also being targeted.

Girl Crush #1 (and boyfriend). You live in/around Greenock. We live in Greenock. You are beautiful and cool and I think you have a crush on me, too. I loved our conversation we had that one time. I do ever so hope you will be our friends. You's are big targets.

Girl Crush #2 (and boyfriend). I'd already decided I wanted to be your friend but when I saw your flat today, I just knew. We could be great friends. We both like pink. And I think you'd both really like Jesus if you gave him a chance. But even so, I like you very much. Do you like us? Check yes or no.


The hunt has begun.