FRIENDSHIP GROWS SWEETER

The really best of friends - the women who are closer than sisters - are those friends who've been through a lot together. They've enjoyed the good times, and comforted each other during the tough times. They're the ones you telephone to share some wonderful news; they're the ones you run to when your heart is breaking. You know they'll stick by you through thick or thin. They'll always be there.

They're also the ones you share the ordinary, everyday things of life with. You know they won't yawn with boredom when you tell them about your child's first tooth.

This kind of friend will laugh at your jokes - or tell you they're not funny without hurting your feelings. She's the one you confide in when you're worried about your marriage, your finances, your health, your faith. You can be completely candid and honest, for you know she won't judge you. When she gives you advice, you know it's worth listening to, for she has your best interests in mind.

Yet even the very best friend isn't perfect. Every friendship has its share of ups and downs, disappointments and discouragements. But the true test of friendship is whether it endures the hard times as well as the happy times.

When you are truly best friends - when you have a friendship worth preserving - you learn how to voice your feelings with each other. You discuss how and when you've been hurting. You even cry together. Then you forgive, seal your friendship with a hug, and continue on good terms with each other.

That's how best friendships are maintained over the years. Each little offense is dealt with and forgiven (and forgotten). The focus remains on the strengths of the relationship - love, understanding, acceptance, and loyalty. When you take time to work through differences and misunderstandings, the stronger and sweeter the friendship grows.