💌 Just because some individuals at work or school talk to you regularly, it doesn't qualify them as "real friends". Anybody can easily smile at you out of courtesy while concealing undeniable jealousy or bitterness from an unresolved misunderstanding.
Eleven signs that a person likes you as a potential friend or they don't hold a grudge against you at all:
1] They seem very patient with you. No matter how many times you didn't show up or you were late for an appointment, or you don't always answer their messages punctually, they readily forgive and understand that there are moments when you can get busy.
2] When you're speaking to them face to face, you notice they're good at making eye contact, listening to you attentively, and not being distracted by their phone or unrelated activity.
3] In a gathering or social setting, they show eagerness or willingness to sit beside you, or if you take a seat near them, they don't instantly get up to transfer to another area as though they're intimidated, but they remain seated, calm and collected.
4] They've given you freebies, bought you drinks or snacks, or went out of their way to give you a gift or souvenir from their travel at least twice.
5] Several times they've defended you, took your side in an argument, or saved you from an embarrassing situation.
6] Their handshakes are usually firm and sincere, accompanied by a loving hug or cheerful vibe, not flimsy nor awkward as if they're scared to approach you.
7] When engaging in a conversation, they occasionally ask you questions about yourself, your loved ones, interests, values, and concerns. A person who makes you feel as though you're conducting a formal job interview, because you're the only one interrogating, isn't a true friend.
8] You can describe them as "kind", "helpful", and "generous", as they've demonstrated many times that they have the ability to assist you, offer advice, listen, help out, and share with you some of their belongings.
9] At least twice they've invited you to an event, requested if you could accompany them outdoors, asked if they can pay a visit, or casually hang out when you're available.
10] They've shared with you some secrets or sensitive information which they haven't told most people, or they informed you about an unforgettable dream, asking for your honest opinion.
11] You still remember the time when they gave unsolicited advice, and you appreciate the fact that any heads-up, reminder, or correction from them shows how they care enough to hope you keep improving as a striving Muslim.
If at least five of the above reminds you of someone, maintain connection with them for Allah's sake and have patience with their flaws, delayed responses, and mistakes. Not all souls instantly click when they first meet. Some of the strongest friendships are formed bit by bit, at a slower pace.
~•~
📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The souls are conscripted soldiers. They come together upon what they recognize, and they differ upon what they reject."
Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 3109
Sahih Muslim 2638
Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim
https://mjustsharingislam.blogspot.com/2021/05/poem-three-common-qualities-of-close.html
https://mjustsharingislam.blogspot.com/2021/02/poem-confession-on-few-good-souls-whom.html
https://mjustsharingislam.blogspot.com/2021/06/tips-five-differences-between-those-who.html
http://justsharingislam.blogspot.com/2017/03/poem-similar-souls-likely-get-along.html