Friends are many, but true friends are rare.
I like Elon Musk’s definition of friendship. A real friend is someone who still accepts you when you reveal the terrible sides of yourself.
A real friend constantly criticizes you whenever you do something stupid but fully supports you when you are determined. Someone who always encourages you wholeheartedly when you fall and celebrates your glorious moments with you.
Think about it.
When was the last time you sat down with your real friends? People who stand by you in the ups and downs of life. People you trust to share the difficulties in your life.
They will criticize you when you do something ridiculous but support you wholeheartedly when you cannot stop them. Brighten your eyes with a few punches every time you are weak, but always encourage you wholeheartedly when you stumble, and raise a glass together when you have good news.
Like a precious gem hidden in the dust, you must keep looking to find more true friendships. Out of 100 people, there will be a few suitable people. Finding is essential, but building and maintaining friendships is even more critical. You need to put in more time, effort and energy. You need to give more. Give sincerely without expecting anything in return (simply because you like what they are doing).
Imagine…
When you are old, what is most important?
Not money, not status (because they don’t last forever, and will be taken away, right?). It’s the laughter, the tears, the moments shared together on adventures with your true friend.
The best thing you will carry with you in your mind wherever you go.
It will make you smile every time you think about it.
It will be a great story for you to tell to future generations.
Maybe you’ve lost some friends due to geographical separation, or something terrible has made the other person no longer the same.
No problem.
Life is impermanent; everything changes.
You will find more suitable friends on your new journey.
Try your best!
Just be open. Just be bold in giving, and of course, be willing to let go of what is not suitable.
You will find the true friend of your life.
– Duc Thong