"Los verdaderos amigos son como las estrellas solo puedes reconocerlos cuando está oscuro a tu alrededor."

True friends reveal their true value in your life during your toughest times. When everything is going well, it's easy to be surrounded by people who want to share in your joy and success. But when challenges arise, the ones who stay by your side, offering support and understanding—those are your true friends.

Think back to the early 20th century. The world was in turmoil with wars and economic depressions. People faced unimaginable hardships, and it was during these times that the concept of true friendship was put to the test. Those who had friends they could rely on, even when the world seemed to be falling apart, found a source of strength and comfort. It's those dark moments that showed who was there not just for the good times, but for the bad too.

Consider the example of J.K. Rowling, the famous author of the "Harry Potter" series. Before she became a household name, she was a struggling single mother living on welfare. She faced countless rejections from publishers before her big break. During those tough times, she had friends who stood by her, offering encouragement and support. These friends didn't just see her potential when she was successful—they recognized it when she was at her lowest, helping her persevere.

If you want to apply this wisdom in your own life, start by observing who is there for you when you face difficulties. Don't just look for the people who want to share in your successes. Pay attention to those who offer a listening ear or a helping hand when you're struggling. Those are the relationships worth nurturing.

Imagine you're going through a rough patch—maybe you lost your job or you're dealing with a breakup. You might notice that some friends drift away, perhaps because they don't know how to help or they just can't handle the negativity. But there will be one or two who check in on you, who offer to come over with a meal or just sit and listen. These are your true stars, shining brightly when everything else feels dark.

A personal story might help illustrate this further. Picture this: a few years ago, my friend Alex went through a rough divorce. It was unexpected and turned his world upside down. During this time, many of his so-called friends disappeared. They didn't know how to deal with his sadness or simply didn't want to be around the negativity. But his childhood friend, Sarah, was different. She showed up with takeout, watched movies with him, and let him vent. She even helped him look for a new apartment. When Alex eventually got back on his feet, he knew who his true friends were—those who had been there during the darkest times.

Remember, friendship isn't just about the good times. It's about being there for each other when things get tough. So next time you find yourself in a difficult situation, look around. See who the stars in your life are—those who continue to shine, no matter how dark it gets. And if you want to be that kind of friend yourself, don't shy away from a friend's problems. Step up and be the light they need.