Theme: Making Friends and Maintaining Friendships
Gratitude Strengthens Bonds
Friendships are like gardens—they flourish with care and attention. And one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to nurture them is through gratitude. Think about the friends who have supported you this year. Did someone listen to you when you needed to vent? Offer advice that shifted your perspective? Simply sit with you in your silence? These acts of kindness, no matter how small, deserve acknowledgement. Gratitude doesn’t just make others feel appreciated—it also deepens your own sense of connection. It shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s present and valuable in your life. This Christmas, let your gratitude become a bridge that strengthens your friendships.
Journaling Prompt: Write down three things you appreciate about a close friend. How might you express that appreciation to them this week?
Action Step: Choose one friend and send them a message of thanks today. Be specific about what you value in them—it will make your words even more meaningful.
Interactive Comment: Gratitude opens hearts. Comment with “I’m thankful!” if you’re ready to spread appreciation.
Would you like to find out what type of friend YOU are? How well do you know your friends? If you and a new friend really are compatible? I have created a set of light-hearted quizzes, quotes and questions to help you do just that. Just fill in the form below and you’ll get immediate access to them all. I’ll also add you to my newsletter list, though you can unsubscribe from this list effortlessly and at any time.
Included:
– How well do you know your Friends? Quiz
– What is Your Friendship Style? and Are your Friendship Styles compatible? Quiz
– 20 of the Most Inspiring Friends and Friendship Quotes and
– 20 lighthearted Questions you can ask to get to know a new Friend
Author Bio: Dr Margaretha Montagu – described as a “game changer”, “gifted healer”, “guiding light” and “life-enriching author” – is an experienced medical doctor, a certified NLP practitioner, a medical hypnotherapist, an equine-assisted psychotherapist (EAGALAcertified) and a transformational retreat leader who guides her clients through life transitions – virtually, or with the assistance of her Friesian and Falabella horses, at their home in the southwest of France.
