What I have learned

of Friends or frenemies
depends solely on actions
 
A friend does not manipulate emotion
  to mental detriment
  for personal reasons;

nor entertain rumors
  or fans discordant flames;
but, listens instead—
  offers alternate perspectives
  creating space
   for peace to breathe

Think about it this way. . .
              
                 vs -

Did you see what s/he wrote?!
  
Like, OMFG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I just KNOW it was about YOU
or, ME(ALL ABOUT MEEEEE)!
Or US!

When in actuality—
it most likely wasn’t

People have their own lives
  and experiences to write about
                
Dramatic people
  will always gravitate
toward friction—
  if they don’t initiate it
  first, for attention

All anyone need do to learn
  the true caliber of a person
  is quietly observe;  
  
be aware who strikes a match—
  lights the fire, who gravitates
  confronts, participates
siphons the energy they crave—
  
killing momentarily
     the misery of a grudge
     they will not release
through perceived revenge
that only returns to haunt them—
again, and, again

Friendship is not measured
  in battle calls by trolls
     nor cyber sister flame warriors
     sharpening their tongues
       with vitriolic gossip

It’s a balanced resolve
  when your back is turned—
adrift in the dark
                      lacking insight—

it’s not stoking the inferno of hate;
but, strength and calm logic—  
  just one ounce of sedate hope
  placidly guiding you out

Then, you know what?
  Once that lesson is learned,
   it’s your turn to teach another—
someone adrift in the dark
   with their back turned

And you can only do that
  through actions, not words

~