Opus 2022-154: Suffering Friendship

I have a theory:  Friendships are built by suffering together.

You could substitute a synonym of some kind for “suffering” but it would have to imply that you went through some kind of difficulty.  Trials show us character.  People see us when we let the masks slip and the comments slip out.  They get to know us as we are and that either draws them closer or drives them away.  It works both ways.

Common experiences give us a bond.  We have memories to share and jokes that others don’t get.  Obviously this can also go for pleasant experiences.  When a child or grandchild comes on the scene it can be a cement that makes life glorious.  It does not always work that way but the potential is real.  When I see friends with their offspring the glow is not just because the kids are so cute.  It is amplified by memories of the times that didn’t seem to wonderful at the time.  My granddaughter has already forgotten the midnight barf festival she put us through.  She may not remember but the bonding of warmth and support are deep in the crevasses of her soul.  When I look at my son it isn’t just the moments of pride that bring a smile to my face but the games we played changing diapers.  

Some people don’t understand that your own kids poop doesn’t stink as much as other kids.

It does not need to be dramatic, just real.

Enjoy the next stumble in your life.  It may begin a wonderful friendship.

homo unius libri