Building Bridges: Reflections on New Friendships and Shared Dreams

The Friendship Pyramid

Friendships, diverse in their forms, often prompt contemplation about the seasons they'll weather. Whether fleeting or enduring, new connections in later life become avenues for self-discovery, purpose revelation, and mutual understanding. The essence of these relationships lies in unspoken nuances, a departure from my usual insistence on understanding the "why."

In August 2020, a new friend shared a profound sentiment with me. The lack of inquiry into his motivation underscores the beauty of our connection—where unexplained occurrences hold a significance understood without dissecting the rationale. This departure from my habitual need to comprehend the "why" marks a personal milestone.

His friendship provided reassurance that I could reach out for support, be it for tears, complaints, laughter, or exciting news, at any hour. The "why" of his sharing became inconsequential; instead, I sought to understand where he perceived our friendship on the metaphorical pyramid. Despite our varied perspectives, the disparity reflected a closeness that transcended physical distance.

This revelation coincided with my admission of fear and vulnerability in love. In choosing different points on the relationship pyramid, we navigated through my evolving understanding of fear versus doubt. Encountering the "degrees of love" wheel reinforced the interdependence of love and friendship. Amid the challenges of 2020, nurturing new friendships, even without physical closeness, became a silver lining facilitated by technology.

This new connection catalyzed a deeper capacity for love, emphasizing the profound human connection and shared aspirations. Amidst the stresses of that year, the foundation of this friendship allowed for mutual growth. His companionship served as a poignant reminder of our shared dreams centered on making the world better. Above all, I reveled in the happiness of having him as a friend, appreciating the opportunities for self-exploration amidst the construction of new bridges.

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N'cki J.