The Validating Friend

The "Validating" friend is the one who thinks you are wonderful and is not shy about telling you that and is not one bit jealous. This friend encourages you to do more and to do your best by reminding you of all the things you are good at. This friend inspires you to try new things by reminding you of and iterating all your past successes. This is the friend you can count of to celebrate the job promotion, the new client who wants more of your work, the award you won. This is the person who you invite to your graduation ceremony when you finally get that Master's degree. She is the one you show your new quilt design to and the one you show the final quilt to when it is complete. This friend asks about your kids and relates their successes to your fine parenting. She makes you feel like you can do anything you set your mind to and helps you remember what you are good at and why those things are important. When you tell this friend that your sister is skinnier, she will remind you that you won't get wrinkles as soon. When you tell her someone got promoted ahead of you, she will remind you how good you are at the job you are doing now and maybe they just couldn't fathom replacing you just now. When you complain that the colors are not just right on your painting, she will tell you that you captured the depth and perspective perfectly. When you complain about not being more athletic, she will tell you how much artistic talent you have and how much people like being with you. She admires your talents and isn't afraid to praise you for them. She makes you feel accomplished and valued and I hope you value her back!