Friendship

Childhood—one of the earliest and most formative stages of our lives. During this time, we begin to crave connection. We long for a companion, a friend. We make friends, and sometimes, we lose them. But how do we truly know who we can trust?

We often use the word “friend” loosely, without stopping to reflect on what genuine friendship really means. As we grow older, we come to understand that it’s not about the number of friends we have, but about the depth and quality of our relationships. The true essence of friendship doesn’t shine brightest in the good times, but in the moments when we are vulnerable, imperfect, and raw—and still feel seen, accepted, and loved.

Research shows that people with few or no close friends often develop strong self-reliance. They’re so accustomed to depending on themselves that forming deep emotional bonds can feel unfamiliar or even unsafe. While self-reliance is admirable, studies have also found that such individuals are more likely to experience symptoms of depression, pessimism, and emotional distress, including feelings of helplessness and pain.

Think about it: how many people in your life truly know you—not the polished version you present to the world, but the messy, complicated, authentic you? And of those few, how many choose to stay? That’s where the core of real friendship lies.

I remember a friend from my old school. We didn’t have much in common, but as the saying goes, “opposites attract.”We were inseparable—doing everything together. But things changed in 5th grade. She began to ignore me, choosing instead to spend time with the “popular” kids. She grew jealous, took credit for my efforts, and even cheated during exams under the guise of friendship—leaving me to take the blame. I started doubting myself: “Was I the one being difficult?” It led to a mental breakdown. Thankfully, I eventually changed schools.

But here’s an important truth: it’s not always the other person who’s at fault. Sometimes, without even realizing it, we may hurt those we care about. That’s why it’s essential to be mindful and kind—especially with the people we love.

Choosing friends wisely is crucial. A good friend helps us grow; a bad friend can lead us astray. True friendship isn’t based on appearance, popularity, or wealth. It’s built on trust, understanding, and loyalty.