Don't try to force friendships. True friendships are mutual and don't require it.
If you find yourself always taking the lead in your friendships or relationships (always making the first call, always sending the first text, always scheduling the dates), back off. When people value something, they let it be known.
The other thing to consider is that your role in those relationships may not be one of mutual friendship and value. You may be there to counsel the person, or be a lifeline - an encourager - to them when they need it. That's a great thing, as long as you recognize it. If you're expecting that behavior to be reciprocated and it isn't, you may get your feelings hurt.
If you're one of the people who tends to use people as counselors, but call them friends, you may need to re-evaluate, as well. Ask yourself if you'd still be "friends" with the person if they stopped being your sounding board for several months.
Most people have very few "mutually valued, mutually beneficial friendships" where they can both listen and share, lovingly counsel and receive loving counsel.
Almost all relationships have value. It's just important to realize what type of relationship you're in.
Constantly Thinking...
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