You know how when you've had a really bad day, the first thing you want to do is talk to your best friend? More so than eating comfort food, more than curling up in a ball to sob, having someone with an open ear seems to be magically healing.

I know I've had my share of these days. After an argument with a parent, a stressful day at work, or just one of those days where everything sees to go wrong, it is easy to be brought down. No matter how miserable I feel though; I always know I have friends who are there for me. Being able to confide in my closest friends allows me to unburden myself from the weight of keeping concerns locked up inside. As people outside of the issues, friends can often see problems from a different perspective too, meaning they have a good chance of seeing solutions I may have overlooked. Being able to talk to someone about anything at any time unfailingly makes me feel better about any painful occurrence.

Knowing from experience the impact an open ear has, I try to be as good for my friends as they are for me. Each one knows that I am always happy to be their confidante, to help them search for answers. They know I will never give up on them or on finding a solution to their troubles. The act of listening seems to most people such a small act, but in reality it is much, much more. Listening isn't just being someone to rant at; it's being a person who cares. No matter what the outcome of a conflict may be, if there is a friend willing to listen, there is automatically something to be grateful for. I believe that a willingness to listen is the best thing a person can have in order to help others. I believe an open ear can ease anyone's tension at least enough to make in bearable. A good friend is always there to listen.