A true friend is like a melody that lingers in our hearts, reminding us of who we are even when we forget. Both my sons have become my closest confidantes and my unwavering support over the years. Our bond is not merely that of parent and children but of two souls navigating life’s tapestry together.

There are days when your messenger is flooded with quotes. Today began that way, reminding me of the value of friendship. As India celebrates Friendship Day today, the first Sunday of August, it is worth noting that International Friendship Day, recognized by the United Nations, is celebrated on July 30.

Whatever the date, friendship is a unique bond that transcends the ordinary, offering a deep and meaningful connection, as I read elsewhere. We need not limit our appreciation to any particular day. A true friend is like a melody that lingers in our hearts, reminding us of who we are even when we forget. They accept us as we are but also gently guide us toward who we should be, believing in our potential and helping us grow. In their presence, we find “solace and therapy, laughing a little harder, crying a little less, and smiling a lot more.” They make it easy to believe in ourselves and discover our strength.

No doubt, friendship is another word for love, and on this Friendship Day, I would like to celebrate these cherished relationships that make life so much more vibrant and meaningful. Friendship is an exploration of new worlds – a journey that transcends the ordinary and elevates the soul, often in the most unexpected ways. Both my sons have become my closest confidantes and my unwavering support over the years. Our bond is not merely that of parent and children but of two souls navigating life’s tapestry together.

It is a reminder that friendship can blossom in the most intimate of relationships, transforming them into something profoundly beautiful. Wherever life takes you, the opportunity to forge new friendships is ever-present, and we need not confine ourselves to conventional nostalgia. Whether at your workplace, in the neighbourhood, or during life’s many adventures, the potential to connect with kindred spirits is always within reach. Yes, friendship is a discovery.

These connections, sometimes forged over shared experiences or common interests, have the power to enrich our lives in ways we never imagined. At the same time, there are moments when friendships thought to be long forgotten resurface, bringing with them a rush of nostalgia and warmth. It is as if these connections never truly faded, waiting for the right moment to re-emerge, like a seed waiting for the right season to sprout. These rekindled friendships have a unique magic, reminding us of the timeless nature of genuine bonds. They transport us to a new world of shared memories and renewed understanding, proving that true friendships can withstand the tests of time and distance.

But, I assert, new friendships should be forged, without any pretensions, too. I feel the essence of friendship lies beyond the confines of definition. It is a feeling, an experience that words often fail to capture. It is beautifully encapsulated in the quote by Walter Winchell, “A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.” True friends are our anchors in life’s stormy seas, providing a haven of comfort and support. They are the ones who know us deeply, understanding our fears, dreams, and quirks. I would like to believe that true friendship is a reflection of the self. In our friends, we often see parts of ourselves mirrored back, both the aspects we cherish and those we struggle with. This mirroring allows us to grow, as friends challenge us to confront our flaws and celebrate our strengths.

Aristotle, in describing friendship as “one soul abiding in two bodies,” hints at the metaphysical unity that true friendship embodies. This unity suggests that friends share not only experiences but also a deeper, almost spiritual connection that transcends the physical realm. The gift of friendship is a rare and precious thing. As S.E. Hinton aptly puts it, “If you have two friends in your lifetime, you’re lucky. If you have one good friend, you’re more than lucky.” True friends are those who not only accept us as we are but also inspire us to become the best version of ourselves. They are the ones who see our potential and gently guide us toward our true calling.

In the realm of existential philosophy, friendship can be seen as a way of navigating the inherent loneliness of the human condition. Through genuine connection, friends provide a sense of meaning and purpose. They offer us the opportunity to be truly known and accepted, making the existential journey less daunting.

As I read somewhere, “A friend knows the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memory fails.” No doubt, friendship is another word for love that is selfless, unconditional, and unwavering. It is the kind of love that does not seek to change us but rather helps us grow into the best version of ourselves, thus making us believe in ourselves. Yes, friendship is not just a part of life; it is a beautiful life in itself.

Reena Rahman is a writer and aviation expert.