The power of friendship cannot be understated. While it’s true we’re all on our own missions — swept up into the business of our own destinies with all the highs and lows, catastrophes and triumphs that comprise our existence, the hug or kind word from a friend during the difficult times can make a profound difference in how we handle them. Friends can give us a boost of emotional strength, which is usually the strength we need in a crisis.
Most of us brush shoulders with others all day long, and when we have the presence of mind, actually make specific plans to rendezvous with friends and family members too. But when we’re going through particularly rocky sections of life, at the time when we actually need others the most, we often retreat into our own thoughts and sorrows, embarrassed to share our troubles, or simply too exhausted by the intensity of them to pour our hearts out to others.
I’m learning that as much as we think we’ve got all our “ducks in a row,” it doesn’t take much for one little quacker to go astray. When my equilibrium shifts due to “life storms,” I have found the best solace in my friends.
My intention is to not only to brush shoulders with friends occasionally, but rather to make an effort to reach out. Perhaps by doing so, I’ll be holding my hand out to a friend at exactly the moment they need a life-line the most.
Cheryl – Thanks for such a thoughtful and honest post. It's a given that friends bolster us during turbulent times, but less obvious that we should put ourselves in the paths of our friends more often – even when things appear to be going smoothly. We're all facing adversity in our lives in some way – big or small – and it's true that we disconnect and don't always ask for help.
I've found that I follow the advice of a former Rabbi who when talking about crisis told me "don't ask, just do." I've lived by this and it's helped me help myself and others in need. But thanks for reminding me that I don't need to wait for a crisis — we all should "just do" more often. Lots of love to you and your family and lucky friends.