Friendship is a beautiful and sometimes unpredictable force in life—sometimes strong and solid, sometimes fleeting like a butterfly, and sometimes just a well-disguised business transaction. Over the years, I’ve experienced them all, from the friendships that feel like family to those that vanish the moment circumstances change. This reflection is a little piece of me, as human as it gets, as I share my thoughts on what it means to truly connect with others.

The Sibling-Like Bonds of Childhood

Childhood friendships are something special. You grow up together, know each other better than your own siblings (or at least, it feels that way), and even if years pass without meeting, when you do, it’s like no time has passed at all. There’s a raw authenticity to those bonds. You don’t filter your words, you don’t calculate what to say or hide—it’s just you, and them, as you always were.

Personal Reflection:
I’ve had friendships like this in my life, and they’ve taught me the importance of being real. Those friendships from childhood make me realize that being true to yourself is the best way to keep genuine bonds alive. There’s a freedom in those connections—a purity that allows me to just be myself, without trying to impress anyone. It’s the kind of relationship where no words are needed; it’s just an understanding that we’re in it together, no matter how much time has passed.

The Butterfly Friendships

Then, there are those friendships that arrive like a beautiful butterfly. They bring joy, color, and trust, only for you to realize one day that they’ve flown away. You don’t even know exactly when it happened. One day, they were part of your world, and the next, they were just a memory. Did they serve a purpose? Probably. Does it still sting? Absolutely.

Personal Reflection:
I’ve learned that some friendships come into our lives for a reason, even if it’s just for a season. While it’s sad when they drift away, I’ve come to appreciate them for what they brought during that time—joy, wisdom, or simply shared experiences. It may sting a little when they’re gone, but I trust that these fleeting friendships were part of my journey. I try to embrace the lessons they’ve given me, understanding that it’s all a natural part of the ebb and flow of life.

The Bubble Effect

I’ve had friendships that felt unbreakable. We worked together, spent years side by side, and believed this bond was for life. But then, one of us changed jobs, moved away, or simply took a different turn, and the friendship—poof!—burst like a bubble. It’s sad, but it’s also incredibly real. Some friendships are woven into the fabric of our daily lives, and when that routine is gone, so is the connection.

Personal Reflection:
It’s tough when a friendship that once felt so strong dissolves. But I’ve learned that we can’t hold on to everything forever. People grow, change, and sometimes drift apart. And that’s okay. What matters is appreciating the time you had together and understanding that change is part of life. I try to remind myself that even though this particular friendship ended, the moments we shared weren’t wasted. They helped shape me, and I’ll always cherish those connections for what they were.

The Business Friendships

These are interesting. People who stick around for as long as there’s something to gain—professionally, financially, socially. They show up, play the role of a friend, and as soon as their goal is achieved, they vanish. It used to hurt me a lot, but now? I recognize it, accept it, and move on. Each time, I tell myself, “Next time, I won’t fall for it.” But, being who I am—someone who trusts, who loves people—I do. Call it childish, call it naïve, but I wouldn’t want to be any other way.

Personal Reflection:
Trusting people has always been my nature, and while it has sometimes led me into friendships that weren’t as genuine as I thought, I’ve learned to accept this as part of life. I don’t regret my approach, because I believe that showing trust and kindness to others is never wasted—it’s just part of who I am. And while some people take advantage, I also know there are genuine connections waiting. It’s all about perspective. I’d rather keep my heart open than close it off because of past experiences.

The Thinker in Me

I am open-minded, but also open-mouthed—I talk, I love talking. I love knowing people, understanding how they see the world, what makes them tick. I think and overthink (teacher instincts kicking in!). Friendship, to me, is so much deeper than just companionship; it’s a mutual appreciation, an understanding that goes beyond words. And yet, I know—some judge me for this, some misunderstand. That’s life. Not everyone has to like me, and that’s okay.

Personal Reflection:
My mind works overtime when it comes to relationships, and I overthink sometimes. But I’ve realized that the people who truly get me, get the way I think. I don’t have to explain myself to everyone, and not everyone will understand or appreciate the depth I bring to a relationship. I’m okay with that. The right people, those who value genuine connection, will stay. The others, well, they’ll fade away, and that’s okay too.

The Masks People Wear

One thing I’ve learned: a lot of people wear masks. They pretend to be something they’re not, either to fit in or to be what they think others want them to be. But here’s the truth—there’s only one YOU. And if you hide the real you, how will the person who truly needs a friend like you ever find you? Be yourself. It’s the best thing you can offer the world.

Personal Reflection:
I’ve never worn a mask in my life to pretend to be someone I wasn’t. Sure, there were times I envied others—whether for their appearance, their confidence, or their abilities. But pretending was never my thing. I’ve learned that embracing who I am, imperfections and all, end of the day is what makes me ME-Imperfectly Perfect. 

The Parent-Child Friendship: Balancing Love and Boundaries

Parenting doesn’t have to mean being all authority and no connection. I’ve always believed that a parent can be a friend too—someone who listens, understands, and shares a genuine bond. With my children, I’ve always aimed for a relationship built on trust and respect, where we can talk, laugh, and even disagree without it feeling like a power struggle.

Personal Reflection:
I’ve always maintained that being a mother doesn’t mean sacrificing the ability to be friends with my children. I believe it’s possible to build a relationship where they feel comfortable talking to me about anything, but still know that I am their parent first. We share jokes, have deep conversations, and support each other, but there’s a clear understanding of boundaries that respect both sides. It’s about knowing when to step in, when to set limits, and when to let them make their own decisions.

Sibling Friendships: A Bond That’s Unique

Siblings can be some of our closest friends, but the dynamic can often be more complicated than we expect. We may have a deep connection, but it’s natural for sibling relationships to be layered with rivalry, jealousy, and disagreements at times. What makes them unique is that they’re often shaped by shared history and understanding that goes beyond surface-level friendship. However, setting clear boundaries and respecting each other’s individual paths is important.

Personal Reflection:
Sibling relationships can be both comforting and challenging. I’ve learned that sometimes, sibling friendships don’t turn out as we wish. It’s important to recognize that each person’s journey is different, and accepting this helps us understand that sometimes, your sibling may not be your best friend, but they will always be family. I’ve learned to value and respect my sibling relationships, knowing that sometimes the love is quiet but always there.

The Husband-Wife Friendship: Beyond Duty to True Companionship

When it comes to marriage, I believe that companionship is key. A husband and wife should be friends—partners who genuinely enjoy each other’s company, share their dreams, and support one another through life’s ups and downs. It’s not about duty or obligation; it’s about choosing to be there for each other because we truly want to.

Personal Reflection:
I don’t believe in duty for the sake of duty in relationships. Duty should come naturally, not out of obligation. It’s like trying to impress with a prayer a higher power without gratitude for what we already have—it’s empty. The relationship is a partnership, where both of us know that supporting each other isn’t something we do because we have to, but because we want to. Also, we all show love in different ways. Sometimes, I think that my partner understands how much I care without needing to say “I love you” every day. I have this kind of.. my way I express and I hope he gets that. If not he gets the hint after reading the article hahah. But the truth is—words matter. It’s not always easy to say them, I get that. Not everyone can express love so freely. But those words hold power. They mean something—they’re the glue that keeps the connection strong, and whether we like to admit it or not, we all like to hear it and feel it.

The Final Thought

Friendship isn’t always easy. It can be painful, disappointing, or even feel like a betrayal at times. But it’s also one of the most rewarding parts of life. It’s not a business transaction; it’s a mutual connection. It’s the people who see you, accept you, and choose to stay, no matter what.

And here’s the truth:

Let’s hurry to love those around us, because life is short, and people don’t stay forever. We often rush to solve problems, to achieve goals, to finish tasks—but love is the one thing we should never rush past. Give your love, say what’s in your heart, and cherish every moment. Tomorrow isn’t promised, and in a blink, a person who means so much to you might be gone.

Life without friends—without the people who truly matter—would just not be the same. So, love boldly, love fully, and love without hesitation.