Each new friendship is a chance to present to the world a better version of yourself.
I think a lot of people look back in their lives on the mistakes they made, particularly with respect to relationships, and wish they could erase that part of their history.
But it’s those same mistakes make up who you are. And they allow you to create a better version of yourself.
Old friends have seen almost as many versions of you as you have.
Sharing decades of shared stories is a fundamentally human thing.
And it’s only possible with old friends.
They aren’t bluffed, they aren’t fooled. They cut through all the fluff that you let build up around you and remind you that it wasn’t so long ago you were crying after a game of force ‘em backs or sulking at the Tenpin Bowling alley during you 12th birthday party.
They remember when you wore hand-me downs to free dress day, when you asked out a girl for the first time.
There’s no sense of pretence with old friends.
And while new friends are sometimes better for the fact that didn’t know you way back when, they also take a longer time to develop.
I have lots of new friends and some old friends.
I get a lot of energy from the new friends. But it’s the old ones who help remind me who I really am.
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
My old friends remind me of who I was and I find that a bit stifling. Some friendships have evolved as I have changed and these have been the most enduring.
New friends are exciting and refreshing however they do not know me in the context of my family as well as old friends.
Generally it’s difficult to find a friend that understands all parts of my being.
I guess that’s why it’s good to have lots of friends.
This was a lovely read, thanks.
Nice one Mr Crocker.
Old friends keep you grounded.
New friends help you fly.
You need both.
Well put. It’s been great seeing you grow and better yourself through all ‘versions’ of yourself. Every few years, a new passion or project arises and your drive sees you thrive in that area. That in itself is a part of the version of you I know and love, and it’s been present all throughout your journey.
Thanks Lobo. That’s an awesome comment.
P The best part out of these friendships is that, it helped me accomplish many things that I