And then, out of the blue, someone extends a helping hand. You're caught off guard by the act of kindness but are invited by the aura of warmth that radiates from their presence. Before you know it, the tears turn into laughs and giggles, and the worries disappear… all because of the power of friendship.

When you know you have a friend, you realize you are not alone. You know there is someone who will celebrate your wins and sit beside you as you sulk through the losses. There is a sense of assurance and security that follows, and the next time the going gets tough, you know you will have a partner to help you through it all.

To reach your true potential, sometimes, you need a friend to put you on the right track. Friendship is a mirror that helps you look at who you truly are. Good friends will motivate you to achieve your goals, correct you when you're being unfair, and help you become the best version of yourself.

Friends also act as a source of growth and inspiration. They introduce you to new perspectives on life that can exponentially improve how you live yours. Their happiness rubs off on you, and so do their good habits. As a result, your personality is enhanced.

The mark of a good friend stays with you, not just in the good moments, but when the tides get rough. It is easy to be around someone through the laughs, giggles, parties, and cheers, but it's all about the friends who help you clean up your tears.

If you have someone in your life you can call a "friend," someone who embodies the traits mentioned above, keep them close, for these gems are rare.

Same goes for the protagonist Edris, in I. L. Grady's book "Life Without You." She finds her solace in Ryland, a loyal friend who stands by her during the worst hours after she gets her heart broken by Jaiden. As she navigates life without him, Ryland stays by her side. However, an unexpected development changes their connection. Find out what happens next by clicking on the link!