English 
Are You Your Friend’s Friend?
Friendship is a cornerstone of human connection, a bond that often transcends time, distance, and life’s inevitable changes. But in an age where social media and virtual interactions dominate, the question arises: Are you your friend’s friend?
The Surface of Friendship
In today’s world, being someone’s friend can be as simple as accepting a social media request or exchanging occasional texts. These interactions create the illusion of closeness, yet they often lack the depth that true friendship requires. We find ourselves “liking” posts and sending emojis, but how often do we engage in meaningful conversations? Are we aware of our friends’ struggles, triumphs, or even the changes in their lives? Or have we become mere spectators to their curated online personas?
The Depth of Real Friendship
True friendship demands more than surface-level interaction. It requires empathy, trust, and a willingness to invest time and emotional energy. It’s about being present—not just in the joyful moments, but in the challenging ones as well. A real friend listens without judgment, offers support without expectation, and understands without needing to be told.
True friends are those who check in when life gets tough, who remember the little details that matter, and who stand by you even when it’s inconvenient. They celebrate your successes, mourn your losses, and grow with you through life’s ups and downs.
The Digital Dilemma
With the rise of social media, maintaining friendships has become both easier and more difficult. Easier, because we can stay connected with friends across the globe with a few clicks. More difficult, because these platforms often encourage a form of interaction that is superficial at best. We may think we’re staying in touch, but are we connecting?
Evaluating Your Friendships
To determine whether you are truly your friend’s friend, ask yourself:
- Do I make time for my friends, even when life gets busy?
- Do I know what’s going on in their lives beyond what they post online?
- Am I there for them when they need support, or only when it’s convenient for me?
- Do I celebrate their successes and provide comfort during their struggles?
If the answers to these questions are unclear, it might be time to reassess the role you play in your friends’ lives.
Building Stronger Connections
Strengthening friendships requires effort. Make time for in-person interactions whenever possible, or engage in meaningful conversations over the phone or video calls. Be proactive in showing that you care send a message just to check in, remember important dates, and listen actively when they share their thoughts and feelings.
In essence, being a true friend means going beyond the screen. It means being present, both physically and emotionally, and showing up for the people you care about.
By Edima Columbus
