This I Believe

THIS I BELIEVE: FRIENDSHIP

What is really important? Certainly family is at or near the top of the list, especially for anyone who has been or is part of a nurturing loving family. But I’d like to speak to friendship as I have come to realize it to be a major part of my well being. I’m including all aspects of friendship – everything from those “soul mates” who become life-long extensions of yourself to the more casual acquaintances who may be seen only occasionally, but still bring a smile to your outlook just in passing.

Soul mates, be they your spouse or someone else, know and accept you as you are with no pretences and no illusions, faults and all. You know you can celebrate, grieve, dream, whine and vent without undermining the bond between you. In fact, such close, heartfelt exchanges actually reinforce the connection. I have two such friends and would be a lesser person without them. My emotional horizons are nurtured and extended by their role in my life.

Not all friends are “soul mates”, but these friendships, just as true, are also important to me. Whether related to family, work or leisure circles, these special people may share a common thread, outlook, interest or goal. How often have I been comfortable enough to confide in a friend only to learn I’ve struck a responsive chord that can ease both of our hearts.

I also include within my definition of friendship people I have known over the years who make me smile when I see them again. People I know and admire for their character – people I’m glad to see and that are clearly glad to see me. How sad it would be not to have those encounters as brief as they may be.

All of these people are an integral part of my life. I love them and my life is enriched with their presence.

And what about friendships that never came to be because I did not reach out? The times I was too busy to stop and help or just greet someone I did not know. I have a sad feeling that I really missed something here.

Friendship takes time and effort. Friendships can wane and even disappear with lack of attention. Distance as an excuse is not good enough. Elapsed time is not an excuse either. Friends of the past can become friends again with a call or e-mail. The rewards for reaching out can be great.

One cannot take friendships for granted. If you do, your friendship will begin to fade. You must tell those friends that they are important to you that you value their friendship.

THIS I BELIEVE. . . .