Grateful

As I was delving into the concept of platonic expressions of devotion, my mind wandered to the cherished friends in my life. Oh, how I miss them! It's a feeling that lingers persistently. I often wonder when we will all be able to gather together again. I had hoped for a grand reunion at Suju's wedding, but alas, Aniket had exams, so he visited me and Gayatri beforehand. I couldn't have been more grateful for that time. The overwhelming joy I experience in the presence of my friends is simply indescribable. Just a couple of hours spent with them and suddenly, life begins to make sense. Regardless of their own individual journeys, they have mastered the art of maintaining true friendship, and their love for me knows no bounds. They have never made me feel any less important. Take a lesson from Suju—she saved momos for us at her own wedding. If that isn't love, then I don't know what is! (Well, maybe it's a different kind of love, but you get the point!)

Sometimes, I ponder if anyone could love me more than these incredible friends of mine. If such a person exists, oh my, I can't even fathom it. You know, when you start prioritizing friendship above all other relationships, you experience a sense of contentment. It's a feeling of fulfillment. Of course, I won't disregard other relationships, but when I weigh the scales, I find myself happier in the company of my friends. If they had wanted to abandon me, they would have done so long ago. I have given them countless reasons to leave me in the dirt, yet they chose to stick by my side. Thank you, you wonderful bunch of morons!

*Please ignore my face in this moment of pure joy. They have provided me with a month's worth of serotonin boost!

I have no idea how these lovable morons have become an integral part of my life. They have surpassed all expectations, and, well, I hope the evil eye doesn't jinx our bond! (Laughs)

Throughout my friendships and relationships, I have learned valuable lessons. Two ex-best friends in particular taught me enough about friendship to know that I won't settle for less anymore. One of them used to communicate with random guys on the internet and attempted to set me up with them. It was a toxic dynamic that I refuse to even entertain in my mind. She would say things like, "I talked to this guy on Facebook, and he's my good friend now. By the way, he likes you. Swear on me that you'll date him," all while knowing I was in a serious relationship. No offense, but I don't have time for people who lack emotional depth and make no effort to understand themselves or others. My other ex-best friend lied to me about a very serious matter, and that marked the end of our friendship. I couldn't tolerate it any longer, and I have no regrets about drifting apart. These two were my best friends during our 10th grade. I prefer harsh truths over sugar-coated lies. If someone wants to test my patience, all they need to do is lie to me. That's the end of the line. I can handle almost anything, but dishonesty is something I won't tolerate. There's no chance I'll reconsider my stance on that person ever again.

I often hear about adult friendships that revolve around the normalization of not talking to each other for months. However, I hold a different perspective on this matter, and let me illustrate it with an example. I have a best friend from school with whom I don't communicate regularly, and I completely understand why. She's pursuing a Chartered Accountancy course, and both of us have been engrossed in our own lives. However, she sends me these long, heartfelt paragraphs, usually around 2-3 am, and I absolutely cherish those texts. I know I can rely on her. She is an absolute blessing, and my love for her knows no bounds. She knows what's happening in my life, and likewise, I am well aware of what's happening in hers. Frankly, I prefer voice notes to phone calls, but she's the only person I can engage in hours-long conversations with over the phone. Kirti, if you're reading this, I want you to know that you are special to me, and I love you.

So, coming back to the topic of adult friendships, can someone truly be your best friend if they are unaware of what's going on in your life? Can they stand beside you during your worst moments? When I experienced the most devastating breakup of my life, my friends were there for me every step of the way. They did everything in their power to make me the happiest person on Earth, and that's why I can't help but brag about them. Not a single second did they leave me feeling alone. Their caring messages and heartfelt voice notes provided an immense amount of support and made me feel loved. I could go on and on about it! I am forever indebted to them for their unwavering support.

Honestly, it doesn't require much effort to send a text asking, "How are you? What's going on?" Even if that person doesn't reply for days afterward, it doesn't bother me. At least I know that if I didn't matter to them, they wouldn't have reached out in the first place. Let's not confuse adult friendship with making less effort. That's not how genuine connections work, and it certainly isn't a path toward maturity.

Speaking of efforts, Aniket surprised me the day after he arrived in Delhi. Well, Aniket, if you're reading this, let me inform you that it wasn't much of a surprise. Your dad spilled the beans a week before your arrival. He kind of forgot that it was meant to be a secret, and your sweet mom asked me to play along. (Laughs) I didn't tell anything to Gayatri because, obviously, she adores surprises even more than I do, and I wanted to witness her reaction.

Ah, Gayatri, she is the most amazing thing that has ever happened to me. She encouraged me to go out with guys and ended up being my date! (Laughs) I appreciate her more than words can express. I will never forget how she supported me during my lowest moments, and the bond I share with her mom is something truly special. Aunty and I often share playful banter about Gayatri over the phone, and she listens to the entire conversation with narrowed eyes and folded arms. (Laughs)

These 4-5 individuals, I want them to be a part of my life forever. They know me so well, and I simply don't have the strength to go through the initial stages of forming new friendships. Besides, who needs a loose cannon in their life when God has blessed them with such adorable friends? Certainly not me!

So, I urge you all to cherish your real friends and stay connected with them. Don't be like me. Don't ignore red flags as if they were part of a carnival. Learn to reciprocate love and let go of those who cannot reciprocate your affection. It's not worth your time and energy. I've made significant progress in this area, and I no longer try to paint red flags pink.

Consider this a sign to express gratitude to all the friends who have always been there for you. Go on, reach out to them! Take care!! See y'all <3