Don’t walk behind me; I may not lead. Don’t walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend. –Albert Camus
What does it mean to have a friend—someone who knows and cares for you, someone who listens, stands by you and offers a hug or smile when you need it most? With true friends we can be ourselves, express our feelings, reveal our idiosyncrasies and make mistakes without fear of judgment. With our friends we share stories, laughter, dreams and hopes. We share life, and loss, and the world is a safer and brighter place with our friends in it. If you have even one close friend in life, you are blessed. What does it mean to have a friend? Simply everything.
Author, Anaïs Nin said it beautifully, “Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born.” Friendships can bring love, support, happiness and occasionally strife. Although there are a few who seem to function for a while without friends, most of us depend greatly on the company of true ones.
Many countries around the world celebrate today, the first Sunday of August, as International Friendship Day. As the best way to keep a friend is to be one, use this day as an opportunity to celebrate your friendships. One of your friends may be missing you. Pick up the phone and let them know you care. Arrange a visit, make some tea or coffee, or enjoy a glass of wine. Enjoy a meal together, take a walk or go for a run together. Enjoy the sun. Enjoy life. Laugh and reminisce. You are both blessed.
To all my old and new friends, Happy Friendship Day!
The great lesson…is that the sacred is in the ordinary, that it is to be found in one’s daily life, in one’s neighbors, friends, and family, in one’s backyard.
–Abraham Maslow
PETIT WORLD CITIZEN 
Oh, Martine,
Happy Friendship Day!! Thank you for your friendship. Thank you for sharing your eyes and ears as you travel the world. Thank you for making us a part of your family. Love you!
Josephine, thank you for your friendship and for your interest in being part of the Petit World Citizen community and family. I’m happy you’re a part of it. Love to you!
Martine, a beautiful post. I’m so happy for our friendship too. Look forward to seeing you soon, when we’re back from respective holidays. Libby XOXO
Thanks Libby. I truly do feel blessed to have so many wonderful friends like you in my life. Looking forward to seeing you soon too!
Hi, Martine. Beautiful post. The first quote was so moving. I have been reflecting quite a bit on what makes a friend. As I get older, I realize that I am often the one giving. I seem to choose friends who are less giving – and moving constantly has been challenging in creating an “inner circle.” We live somewhere long enough to find real friends and cultivate the relationships (this can take a few years!) – and the, we are gone. Still, we must always try to be social – so that we can be happy! Thank you for sharing. – Shanna
Hi Shanna. I’m glad you liked the post and quote. It’s true, as we get older it’s more challenging to make true friends. And yes, moving often makes it even harder. Can you try keeping in touch with the “quality” friends you’ve made in one place, even after you move? I realize that’s difficult but sometimes trying to stay close with one of the few gems you’ve found can also help make a difference. As I get older I realize how rare it can be to make new friends who will stick and become part of the inner circle. Like you, it’s something I think of often, especially through the lens of how I will teach my son the values of friendship and the importance of reciprocity. I want him to learn to give and know how to also be on the receiving end to learn how to accept help from a good friend when he may, or may not, think or know he needs it. I hope your efforts for real friends are soon seen, appreciated and reap satisfying results! I’m so glad this post was of meaning to you. Thank you for letting me know. All the best and have a lovely day. — Martine
Hi, Martine,
Yes, you are spot on: keeping in touch with good friends is so important. I do try to do this, though different time zones and lack of proximity can be a challenge. But, yes – it is ideal and important to hold on the meaningful “gems” of friendship.
Your son will certainly be one that practices reciprocity, but who is also able to ask for and accept help. He will have a warm, caring inner circle and family. You are doing a wonderful job – I can tell what a thoughtful parent you are.
Thank you for you words of wisdom. Take good care. I am enjoying your writing!
Best wishes,
Shanna
Thanks Shanna. I so much appreciate your kind words. Have a great evening!