The Bonds We Make That Never Break

The song “Lobster Bucket” by The Aquabats always comes to mind whenever I think about the concept of friendship:

Friends help each other
Any way they can
When you're up at bat
They'll be your biggest fan
When you're in a pit
they'll pull you out of it
It ain't wrong to write a song
For all your friends to sing along.

God I love that tune.

I recently went to a mini-reunion with some of my good friends from my old college days (and by that I mean a few years ago.) The good times we had were an instant reminder of how great it is to have fellow travellers in life’s journey. It got me thinking of how many of these relationships I have had, and how great it is to see it in others.

In my reporting here in New Hampshire, there have been so many inspiring people that have done great things for themselves and the community. Yet, pretty much every example of this mentions the important role their have friends played.

A helpful hand during a new business venture, a shoulder during a tough time or feet that follow them into the unknown and beyond. Good friendship is seen in so many heartwarming stories that appear in my news coverage and others.

How amazing is it that there are people in our lives who will be there for you, without expecting anything in return? The bonds we form with each other are stronger than any army or weapon of choice.

I have had many friendships over the years, and now they lie on many levels of closeness. Friends I can call for helpful advice, bros I see each week for a game of Dominion or the league of men that reside in our secret Facebook group. I have always thought a good friendship is one that is not affected by time, distance or even beliefs.

There are friends I haven’t seen in years. Good buddies who believe in things I totally disagree with, or live so far away that a visit is a rare treat. Yet, no matter what, my best friends are not who they are because of silly obstacles or differences. 

Friendship is a bond that can bend, but never break. A good friendship goes up and down like so many other aspects of life, but there is always a part of them with you. Nothing makes life worth living more than knowing that you matter to others, and they matter to you.

I sat with my old buddies during that reunion and reminisced on the good times. I see my nearby friends each week and talk about how times are indeed good. My best friends, no matter the distance, will be there for me during the good and bad.

Life is hard and there are plenty of times when it can seem like we are isolated from others, or even ourselves. Just don’t forget that there is always somebody who cares about you, and a new friend is waiting just around the corner.