The "Clique"

I'm a bit behind the curve with female friendships. I didn't have a "clique" in High School that I belonged to because I despised that type of mentality. Actually, that is why I didn't become a cheerleader in HS. I was a cheerleader up until that point of my life. In HS it was more like a club. I didn't want to be in a club where the girls somehow thought they were better than others because they were pretty or whatever. I still feel that way. I don't identify with one group, I like everyone, from all walks of life. The word "clique" means; a small, exclusive circle of people. Many times, within adult groups, I don't believe this is the intent, for a clique to form I mean. Usually it is a group of people who have some common interests who get together socially. Everyone is welcome, but after a while, only certain people get the "invitation". Others are inevitably left out. About a year ago my husband and I were trying to form a group of friends that we could socialize with once a month for a dinner club. It was fun while it lasted, but of course it came to it's inevitable end. I also started doing a girls night out with whoever wanted to join us. I believe it ended because it wasn't God's plan for me. Like I said, we were trying to form friendships. I wasn't aware of the formation of a clique, but I'm sure some people viewed it as such. It's a different view...from the outside looking in. I am no longer interested in going out with groups of people. I think that is the stage my oldest daughter is in. (she's 13) She will hang out with groups of girls and socialize that way. I am in a stage of life where I am trusting God to lead me in my friendships. I only go out one-on-one now unless it's a movie or something where the opportunity to socialize is not really there. I know I am getting to know these people better. I enjoy it more and feel more connected to my friends this way. I guess I am saying all of this because I've been thinking about how cliques form lately. I see them at work and at church and...well, pretty much everywhere! It's not for me. Well, to each his own, but I know the friends I have are gifts from God and I treasure each one of you! This is not an "exclusive" group! There's always room for more! : )