I’ve been informed that the word "I" is the most frequently used word in the English language; I can believe it. See for yourself by counting the number of times I write "I" in this column alone. There are many commonly used words we depend upon repetitively. Sure, we couldn’t keep track of each time a word such as "the" is spoken and written as part of everyday life; we need certain words to form fluent language.

There is a word, however, that is used as a matter of choice. It is a word we take for granted and throw it around carelessly. The six-letter word I am referring to is: FRIEND. Everyone has friends. Classmates, co-workers, and acquaintances often fall into this category. If I exchange pleasantries with the mail carrier or store cashier more than twice, are they my friends, too? Where is the line drawn?

I suppose most of us have a loose interpretation of the word "friend." My pocket dictionary defines it as "person one likes." Heck, I’ve liked people I’ve never been personally introduced to; does this mean we’re friends? That brings us to the term "friendship." This must define two people who both like each other. In other words, if you like someone, he or she is your friend. However, he or she must like you, as well, in order to label it a friendship. This is way too confusing for me and I don’t agree with the given definition. I don’t care what my dictionary states; I believe a true friend is one who proves to be sincere.

The term "sincerely" seems to have lost its significance. It is utilized in sentences, songs, and out of habit when closing letters. We don’t think too much about it, after all, it’s only a word, isn’t it? I don’t think so. There is an implied obligation attached to its meaning.

My definition of sincerity is honesty, openness, and intentions of following through on promises; this allows for all good things to be built upon. I expect the same from others and am usually disappointed. You see, I often take for granted that all people think as I do. Big mistake. I look too deeply into others expecting to find something; I’ve mostly discovered emptiness seemingly comfortable and unquestioned. There is no honesty, openness, or intentions of following through on promises. Only the bare minimal amount of energy needed to exist each day is exhibited, nothing more. I suppose mimicking the basics of life requires less effort than actually leading a meaningful one. There must be a universal switch set on "automatic" as the robots march along in unison. All the while, never realizing what they’ve become.

Over the years, I have met a few individuals ("individuals" in the true sense of the word) whom are indeed sincere. I refer to these few as "heart and soul" friends. There is an internal bond too powerful to be divided. There is undeniable honesty, openness, and intentions of following through on promises. All good things can and do exist. Together, we complete each other, possessing endless dimensions.

The remaining ninety five percent have come and gone, proclaiming sincerity with their words, and in turn, parading insincerity with their actions. I group these people in their own special category: The Sincerely Insincere.