Someone once wrote, “friendship, like the flight of birds, cannot be put into written words”. I am privileged to have both female and male friendships. The word, friendship, can be difficult to describe. There are many kinds of friendships. Some friendships can last a lifetime; others are transient. I believe people come into our lives for a reason. When the purpose (originally unknown to us) has been achieved, some stay; others move on. People enter our lives to either benefit us or, we enter their lives to be of benefit to them. When the purpose has been achieved, some people stay while others continue on their life path.
Friendship is a gift. It is a gift we give to others. It is a gift given to us. Let’s look at friendship this way. Friends (not acquaintances. Yes, there is a difference!) We develop many acquaintanceships throughout our lifetimes but people who become friends, are unique. Friends are acquaintances whom we let into our lives. They become the special people who support us, cry with us and laugh with us! They are not afraid to be honest with us. Oh, by the way, friendship is a two way street. What we search for in others, we must offer in return.
Friendship does not develop with every person we meet. We do not start out expecting friendship when meeting for the first time. Friendship has different aspects; different reasons for existence. When we offer our hand in support, for whatever reason and to whomever, we offer support and kindness and expect nothing in return.
Throughout my life, I have been fortunate to have friends at my side when I was a child, a teen, a young woman and now, in OLDER age, friends with whom to share laughter and the past. Through the years we commiserated with each other whether over a meal, tea or (when needed) something a tad stronger. We have travelled together and visited in each other’s home. We watched our children grow up and our parents die. We watched each other grow older. Some of us had to rebuild our lives through loss but always there was the knowledge there was someone offering support, friendship or whatever was needed.
Let’s raise a cup, mug, glass or stein to friendship. Oh, I almost forgot! Friendship can also be a growing and learning experience. Boy, have I learned at lot! Take care of each other. Time is rushing by.