Friendship goals
I was recently sharing with a group of younger friends, and listening to their stories.
The questions they asked made me reminisce on some of the most beautiful friendships in my life.
I talked about how I prefer to grow strong and deep relationships, rather than a lot of shallow ones. About how I was completely open with my friends. How they knew so much about me - my hopes, aspirations, fears, and the things I do.
About how one of them transcended into a lifelong romantic commitment. The boring practices that keep my relationships beautiful. And some of the lessons I’ve learnt along the way.
Deep. Genuine. Open. Vulnerable. Authentic. Kind. Flourishing together. Those are words I’ll use to describe the friendships that have worked.
Some friendships last a lifetime. Honest and authentic communication is the lifeline of those friendships.
We have more tools to make these connection and accountability possible. From writing periodic reviews as emails/texts to one another, to spending time together and listening to one another. The possibility is endless.
But the tools won’t do the work for us. We have to put in the work. Patiently and carefully.
PS: I like Nick’s description of The Elephant group, describing his friends. I share a similar dynamic with my friends, and recommend you try it too.