Friendship isn't something that you can buy, nor can you make someone be your friend. But even if you find it challenging to connect with others, you can develop lasting friendships.

These 10 friendship quotes can provide insight on how to cultivate friendships - and how to be a friend.

Quote 1:

Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down. - Oprah Winfrey

It's a sad reality, but there are shady people in the world. And unfortunately, some people will only be your friend when there's something in it for them. A true friend, however, will stick with you through good and tough times.

Quote 2:

The only way to have a friend is to be one. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Friendship isn't a one-way street. For this matter, you shouldn't expect your friends to sacrifice their time and energy, or constantly compromise if you're not willing to do the same. Friendship isn't your right - it's a gift. If you're not willing to lend a hand or put yourself second, you may never find true friends.

Quote 3:

A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you. - Elbert Hubbard

Everyone has little quirks and idiosyncrasies. But sometimes, these can be too much for some people to handle. The best kind of friend is someone who accepts the good and the bad about you. They don't expect perfection, and you're free to be yourself without judgment.

Quote 4:

It's the friends you can call up at 4 a.m. that matter. - Marlene Dietrich

Some people are only your friend when it's convenient for them. But there are no time constraints with a true friend. Whether it's in the middle of the day or the middle of the night, a good friend will be by your side to offer support when you need it.

Quote 5:

Life is an awful, ugly place to not have a best friend. - Sarah Dessen, Someone Like You

No matter how hard you try, you can't shield yourself from all problems. You might lose your job, lose a loved one or experience a health crisis. You can be the strongest person on the planet, but without a good friend to lean on during hard times, it can be difficult to maintain a positive outlook.

Quote 6:

I think if I've learned anything about friendship, it's to hang in, stay connected, fight for them, and let them fight for you. Don't walk away, don't be distracted, don't be too busy or tired, don't take them for granted. Friends are part of the glue that holds life and faith together. Powerful stuff. - Jon Katz

Maintaining a friendship takes work. People get married, move away, have kids and experience other changes. And unfortunately, friendships often take a backseat to life's distractions. But regardless of what's going on in your life, there is never an excuse to neglect your long-time friends. Even if you're not able to see or speak to your friends on a daily or weekly basis - some communication is better than none. Close friends can be a refuge when you need to escape.

Quote 7:

A friend to all is a friend to none. - Aristotle

Some people pride themselves on having a large circle of friends and they're always ready to meet new people. Aristotle's words are simple, yet powerful. Sure, your address book may bust at the seams, and you may have more Facebook friends than you can physically count. But how many of these people are true friends?

Quote 8:

I don't need a friend who changes when I change and who nods when I nod; my shadow does that much better. - Plutarch

Don't be afraid to be yourself and have an opinion. Yes, close friends typically have a lot of things in common. They may like the same movies, enjoy the same hobbies and have a similar belief system. But at the end of the day, they are individuals. Friendship doesn't suggest thinking and acting alike. And while imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, most people don't like a copycat.

Quote 9:

Friendship and money: oil and water. - Mario Puzo

Oil and water don't mix, and neither does friendship and money. Not that you shouldn't help a friend who faces economic hardships. But make sure that the terms are clear. Is the money a loan or a gift? Always, always, always have a written agreement when lending to friends. This doesn't imply distrust on your part. But realistically speaking, some people have selective amnesia with regards to money.

Quote 10:

True friends stab you in the front. - Oscar Wilde

A true friend won't always tell you what you want to hear. But unlike fake friends who may talk and do things behind your behind, real friends have the courage to tell you the truth before others do.