What are friends for? To have fun with, to ask for advice. Everything you do with a friend can be called "sharing." And sharing not just the good times but the times of trouble, too.

A good friend is an ideal confidant. You can tell him/her problems you can't tell your parents. Confiding makes one feel much better and a problem shared is a problem halved.

As in other spheres of life, friendship too has its golden rules. Follow them sincerely and the rewards will be great.

Choose friend with care. Remember the limits of sharing. Too much sharing of material possessions can lead to friction.

A good friend is never selfish. So, even if it means spending an extra ten minutes to finish your work later, when a friend turns to you, listen to him and help him out.

Don't be moody or unpredictable.

Nothing can ruin a friendship faster than blowing hot and cold. Show care. Remember your friend's birthday and give him/her a small gift or even a card. Even better, make the card yourself, if you can. No gesture can touch the heart more than the time and effort spent by another in wishing you well.

Be loyal to your friend. The quality and not the number of friends you have is what matters. Be wholehearted in your acceptance when your friend reaches out to you, and learn to keep an open mind.

We may lack wealth and comforts, but in the company of true friends, we can travel through life accompanied by laughter and sunshine, love and care.

Yours, Aunt Imelda