Clayton News Daily

It is extremely important to have family and friends, although some people fail to realize it.

In my situation, I have a lot of friends who are just like family. I mean, sure I have my intermediate family, which includes my mother, boyfriend, brother, godmother and sister.

But I also have a circle of friends who have always been there during my great moments, like graduating from college, and my sorrowful moments, like mourning the death of a loved one.

Sometimes, it's a little weird, because this group of people that I call my advisors has been around so long that I forget they aren't related to me.

Sometimes, I will catch myself calling them cousins, sisters or aunts.

I am blessed to have so many people in my circle who genuinely care about my well-being and what is taking place in my life.

Often times, I find that some people will get into a relationship, or become wrapped up in their own affairs, and forget about their support group. They forget about the people who have always been there for them.

That really bothers me, because people don't take time to think that when the current issue they are so preoccupied with is taken care of, or goes away, that group of friends or family will still be present.

They are more important than any temporary situation or crisis, or new toy, or new friend, or what's going on on your job, etc. They are your support system. They help you get through, and deal with, all of those things that come up in life.

Remember to give them their props, and let them know that you appreciate their being there. It is also important for you to be there for them.

Loyalty and support are two-way streets, or they should be, anyway.

Jaya Franklin covers government for the Henry Daily Herald. She can be reached via e-mail at jfranklin@henryherald.com.