“ I feel unlikable, lonely and hopeless , ” said Lisa, a bright teenager from a loving home. “ It seems that nobody wants to become my friend. What's wrong with me ? ” Like Lisa, many of us experience loneliness. The truth is that all people, no matter what their age or character — even the most outgoing, wealthy and popular — experience loneliness at least sometimes. It's healthy and natural to want to be around people who care. After all, we've all heard “ No man is an island. ” That's true. We all need others in our lives. Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, explains that if we want friends, we must be friendly and reach out to others. But it has risk. Because we are often afraid of rejection ( 拒绝 ), many of us are unwilling to reach out to others. We take a safer way and wait for others to make friends with us. But if we want friends, we've got to get beyond this. If making friends is your goal as well, you need to consider taking some measures ( 措施 ) . Be willing to take the initiative ( 主动权 ). If you see someone whom you would like to know, don't wait for her to make the first move. Get close to her and begin a conversation. Let her know in a non­aggressive ( 无攻击性的 ) way that you are interested in being friends with her. Reach out to those who are lonely. When you see someone at school sitting alone, go over and talk to her. And don't let popularity decide whom you reach out to. You'll often be surprised at the beautiful qualities behind a shy appearance. Ask questions. Start your first conversation by asking this possible friend what she likes to do or asking about her family. Be sure to ask questions that cannot be replied with “ yes ” or “ no ” . For example, don't ask “ Do you have a dog ? ” Instead, say “ So, tell me about your pets. ” Avoiding asking “ yes ” or “ no ” questions makes your possible friend not end your communication with a one­word answer.