The social mask

Photo by Lana Joos

People don't always appreciate you being honest and frank. Being assertive is good, even though not always appreciated. Sometimes it's good to wear a social mask and tell people what they want to hear. If that's what makes your heart tick..

Good friends don't need to wear a social mask. They can be whoever they are in your presence. They don't have to pretend to be someone they are not. They don't have to live up to the ideal you have of them. It doesn't matter to you if they are different from what you had in mind. Because you accept them for who they are.

Good friends are not afraid to tell you about your less appealing characteristics. They don't have to flatter you by saying that dress looks gorgeous if it looks horrible on you. Best friends have a task. They can make you look your best. Discovering the best in you, they make you a better person.

Embrace those friends. Accept their criticism. Because they mean well. Because they truly care..