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www.i-am-magazine.comWays to Live Life as a GiftWhen we understand the power and value ofthese kinds of friendships, we become moreintentional about who we walk with in life. Ourfaith and trust in God help us recognize divineconnections%u2014friends sent not just for a season,but for a purpose. And in turn, we can becomethat kind of friend to someone else. To give andreceive life as this gift, you must:Be present and available. True friendshipisn't about constant communication, butconsistent connection. A simple call, alistening ear, or shared silence can meanthe world.Cultivate trust with integrity. Keepconfidences. Show up. Be honest, evenwhen it's hard. Trust is the currency of deeprelationships.Extend grace. Your friends will not alwaysget it right. Neither will you. Choose to seetheir heart and give room for growth.Celebrate and support. Cheer them on.Celebrate the wins, no matter how small.Be a safe place when life gets heavy.Invite God into the friendship. Pray for yourfriends. With God at the center, friendshipsgo from good to life-giving.The gift of life is best unwrapped in thepresence of those who love you, challenge you,and remind you of who you are in Christ. Thelaughter, the tears, the songs, the prayers%u2014theyall become part of a greater story. One of thepurposes, faith, and the beauty of doing lifetogether.So, if you%u2019re blessed to have such friends, holdthem close. And if you%u2019re still waiting for them,ask God to bring the right people into your life.Because friendship is not just an accessory tolife%u2014it%u2019s the gift that makes life richer, fuller, andmore meaningful.47