Complements!
Thoughtful compliments wear better than impulsive flaterry.We are all wary of insincere friendships. So many people bring ulterior motives into a friendship. It is hard to know whether they are really interested in us as a friend, or whether they just want to get something from us or sell something to us. Skepticism is natural if the dinner party turns into a pitch for membership in a resort.
We can pave the way for meaningful friendships if we dispense with flattery. It is always shallow and usually transparent. It creates an atmosphere of insincerity in the relationship.
Make our convesation count. Learn to give compliments that are meaningful and appropriate. A legitimate, sincere compliement shows that we are aware and appreciative of someone else's effort. That is the stuff on which real friendships are built.
