Speaking

2. What do you want most in a friend – someone who is intelligent, or someone who has a sense of humour, or someone who is reliable? Which one of these characteristics is most important to you? Use reasons and specific examples to explain your choice.

I like people who are intelligent and I always enjoy someone with a good sense of humor. But what I look for first, however, is a friend who is reliable. I need to be able to rely on my friends to provide me with companionship, to support me and to encourage me.

I depend on my friends for companionship. If I want to see a movie or go to a concert, of course I ask some friends to accompany me. If I feel sad or lonely, I can count on my friends to spend some time with me. If I feel happy, I can invite all my friends to a party. I know they will come over to have a good time with me.

When I have troubles, I turn to my friends for support. If I fail an exam or have a fight with someone, I call up a friend. I rely on my friends to be willing to talk to me and help me solve my problems. I expect my friends to be there when I need them and I do the same for them.

I need my friends to encourage me. If I am afraid to do something such as enroll in a difficult course or apply for a job to earn some extra money, my friends help me. They talk to me and give me the confidence I need to try new and difficult things. I know I can count on them to give me encouragement when I need it.

To sum up, we all like to spend time with smart and entertaining people. But I think the people who make the best friends, though, are people who are reliable. If someone is reliable, you know he or she will always be ready to give you companionship, support, and encouragement when you need it. That's what friends are for, isn't it?