Friendship is something that many of us value, but at times also take for granted. A friend is someone who is there when you need help, advice or a listening ear. They encourage you when you’re down and need cheering up. What happens when one friend betrays the other or injures the relationship? When is it beyond repair and when is it possible to be restored? Are there ways to keep the bond from being broken? The answers to these questions vary depending on each situation.
Disloyal friends must take responsibility for their actions. Sometimes a friendship is ruined when one friend is disloyal. One might have said cruel and hurtful things about the other behind his or her back or betrayed the other and proved to be very untrustworthy. In order for the relationship to be repaired those who have caused harm should first apologize with sincerity in their hearts. If it is apparent that the apology is truly sincere, and they are reassuring that the same circumstances won’t happen again, then restoration could be possible. The offended one has the freedom to decide whether or not to try and mend the broken friendship because when trust is broken, it is hard to gain it back since it must be earned over time.
Failure to admit fault could lead to a permanently broken friendship. When a friend has caused tremendous pain to the other without any guilt and refuses to apologize, then the relationship is more likely to be beyond repair, at least until he or she truly realizes the seriousness of his or her actions and expresses regret. If there are no signs of remorse, then there is a good possibility that the same events will happen again in the future. To avoid this from happening, it might be best for both individuals to go their own way.
Long lasting relationships are built on love, honesty, kindness and forgiveness. Forgiveness is very important whether the broken friendship will be restored or not and even if the one at fault does not apologize. This can be very hard, but it is for the sake of the one who forgives, not just for the benefit of the one who has done the wrong. It gives freedom from poisonous feelings of anger, bitterness, and brings healing.
Like in any other relationship, respect is essential. It is key in keeping things from getting sour. All friendships have ups and downs and each set of friends have their own unique set of problems. There will definitely be times when differences may cause disagreements and minor or major discord. To avoid major problems each friend must make it a goal to remain honest, loyal and trustworthy. This will help to prevent friendships from encountering problems that result in the relationship being broken. Then, the bond between the two can stay strong for many years to come.
