Having friends means being there to enjoy the good times and support them in trying times. Helping a friend in need is one of the kindest acts of generosity you can give to another person. Letting your friend know they are not alone and do not have to bear the brunt of their burdens by themselves can help make stressful situations less taxing and frightening. There are many ways you can help a friend in need and many of them are simple, take just a few minutes and can make a real difference to your friend without causing a hardship on you.
Say A Prayer On Your Friend’s Behalf
Offer a prayer of support and care for your friend. If your friend is a person of faith, offer to pray with them. Sharing prayer can help strengthen your bond and affirm your faith. Often after spending time in prayer, people feel renewed and have a sense of hope. If your friend is not a person of faith, offer prayers on their behalf. If you are a member of a church, place your friend’s name on your prayer list and let the power of prayer uplift your friend in their time of need.
Send A Card
In today’s world, it seems that the only thing people get in the mail is bills. Sending an uplifting card to your friend can help make a hard day seem brighter and it reinforces that someone is thinking of and cares for them. Include a personal message of hope and blessings and feel good knowing you have brightened your friend’s day. A card is also something they can keep around and it will lift them up every time they see it.
Take Care Of A Meal
Make a meal for your friend and take it to them. If you are not a cook, pick up something or buy them a gift card at a restaurant they enjoy. Sometimes during stressful life events, people do not take care of themselves and they forget or neglect to eat healthy meals. In times of stress, many people do not have an appetite and go for long periods of time without eating a nutritious meal. Help them take care of themselves by making sure they get a good meal.
Put Together A Basket Of Things They May Need
When a friend has lost a loved one or has a loved one with a serious illness, tears are often shed. Put together a basket of tissue, eye drops and other personal care items they may need but do not have on hand. Things like paper plates, napkins, disposable cups and utensils are huge time savers and can help your friend decrease time spent on household tasks after funerals, extended hospital stays and other big events that are difficult to deal with. In the aftermath of these events, it is not uncommon for people to receive lots of visitors and these items will help your friend host with ease.
Be There
Many people complain that when they are experiencing difficult times, their friends simply disappear. You may not have an answer or solution to offer, but just by sticking by your friend’s side you will demonstrate you value your friendship and are there for them through thick and thin.
Helping a friend in need can strengthen your friendship and offer real comfort to someone who needs it. Follow these tips and watch your friendship grow and flourish.
