Friends are an important part of our lives, so I would like to explain what it means to be a friend from a Buddhist perspective.
First of all, as social animals, we human beings can work together to accomplish many meaningful goals in our lives, and friends can provide support to each other during times of need. However, if we keep company with the wrong kinds of people, then this friendship might put our lives in jeopardy. In Buddhism, friends are taken very seriously because friends can influence one another very profoundly. For instance, if you meet someone who likes to swim, eventually they might encourage you to swim too. Similarly, if your friend is a Buddhist practitioner, then they may also influence in a positive manner and help you to spend your time more meaningfully. But if you meet a friend who goes against the advice of the Buddha and engages in harmful conduct, then such a friend may negatively influence you. Looking for a friend is like seeking out the right life partner. You have to know a person for some time before you can truly rely on them and embrace them as a friend. Above all, friends should have fewer undesirable characteristics than admirable qualities. This does not mean that we shouldn’t try to help and positively impact those around us who are troubled. But we should be careful who we cultivate friendships with, and we should not risk wasting this precious life by spending our time with those who only bring a negative influence.