Friends

 Friends

My blog yesterday elicited quite a bundle of responses. My school friend Jagpreet very correctly pointed out that a friend is with whom you can be yourself. Also you can talk about anything and sit in comfortable silence too.Many readers wrote that they are still in touch with their school and university friends. So good to know and a big thank you to all who gave their feedback. 

My idea of writing about old friends drifting apart was to highlight that it’s okay if you drop a friend because there is nothing left in the relationship. We should look forward to be with friends who are there for us. In fact,  I started writing my blog again after a gap of almost four years because my friend encouraged me to. She is very supportive and is always there with not just moral support but practical help. Thank you Vanita. 

However sometimes we carry a friendship only as an obligation. That to me is avoidable. Friends can have different perspectives but there should be a level of trust, respect and warmth. If meeting a friend is sapping you of all your energy, is it worth the effort? I may sound selfish but I feel our mental health is very important. When I meet my friends, there is no expectation of any kind. I am  just happy to be with them. I come back recharged. If I were to face negativity and whining every time I meet a friend, I’d rather avoid meeting them. 

All our friends play different roles in our life. Some are there to make us laugh, some to give us reality check, still others who take you under their wings and guide you. Some seek attention and others satisfy our intellectual needs. 

Whatever their role, our friends are an integral part of our life. So a small misunderstanding should not be allowed to spoil years of friendship. 

Again I would say, be the friend you want others be to you.

So be it !!!