Making Friends * A Rant *

Those of you who know me know that I have never lived in a particular place for more than 3 years at a time. This has certainly had its challenges, but has taught me so many wonderful things about how to make and keep friends. It has also lead to my learning interesting things about people in general.

For instance, it seems that the ease of making friends is slightly based on what region you happen to be moving to. For instance, some people in certain areas tend to be more guarded and less trusting, and likely won't make the first move toward a friendship. And in other areas, people are generally a little bit more open to the idea of accepting new people into their lives. Even though this can be the case, there are always people with these different personalities no matter where you go, but there is a bit of a difference in the way people behave based on what area they live in. I mean, it makes sense. Big town vs small town; North, South, Midwest, etc. Some of it is more based in culture. I am not intending to say anything bad about any culture; rather I believe very much that the vast array of cultures in this country is what brings our country flavor, color, and beauty.

Now here's where the rant part comes in. I have met so many wonderful people around the country. I have some really awesome friends! I've been living here for just over 4 months now, and I've already met some wonderful people. But it's no secret that making friends is hard to do. I have found that being outgoing and extroverted can be helpful in making friends, but it also seems to push people away before they even can get to know me. That can honestly be heart breaking. Leaves one wondering, "have I been too friendly? Do people just have enough friends already? Should I not go up and introduce myself to people?"

Of course, it may well be unfair of me to think these things. And I certainly don't mind, and completely understand that some just aren't as social as others, and some are extremely busy with other things in life. I have a busy life too, I get it! Kids, work, family, and school take up loads of time.

But I just wish these things were socially acceptable sometimes...
1) I could give a Friendship Resume out to people. Basically, it would verify that I am, indeed, a good friend, I am kind, and I am willing to do just about anything for my friends. This would include, of course,  a few reference letters from current friends. (Totally joking.)
2) I could go up to someone on the street, in a store, etc and say " Hi, I'm Brittany. Want to be my friend?" But I do believe if I did that I'd be likely to, at best, be treated like I'm flirting, and at worst be eyed suspiciously and have the cops called on me.
3) I could strike up a conversation without fear of being ignored/eyed suspiciously/having them try to get away as quickly as possible.

Motherhood can be lonely. Life itself can be lonely. We all need a network of friends close by to support and be supported by. So why is this so complicated sometimes? Why is there that fear of not being accepted? Why do there have to be such walls between random people you see at the store/wherever?

So Hey. I'm Brittany. Want to be friends? :)