In recent months, I’ve noticed a shift in my friendships—perhaps not a shift, but an intensification. Those acquaintances that were once casual have become even more laid-back, while my close friendships have deepened. Long-distance friends who had drifted away are reconnecting. The ongoing health crisis has made me more eager to reach out and check in on those I care about.
The ways we engage with friends have transformed too. Virtual gatherings via Zoom, Houseparty, and FaceTime have taken the place of coffee meetups, happy hours, and leisurely strolls. Conversations have shifted from complaints about endless Little League games to shared frustrations over the absence of those games, graduations, and proms. Every chat feels more meaningful somehow.
When faced with adversity, it’s natural for many of us to seek out the silver linings. We want to find the bright spots in our days and share them with others. But when everyone is grappling with challenges, we often feel the need to remain optimistic and “make the best of things.” While these are commendable attitudes, we sometimes just need a friend to vent to—a confidant who will let us express our fears and frustrations without judgment.
Let’s be real: these times are tough. We’re grieving losses, feeling scared, worn out, and anxious. Yes, we appreciate our health, our families, and the comfort of home, but that doesn’t negate our struggles. When I’m navigating a crisis, I crave the freedom to express my true feelings, and I want friends who understand that need.
So here’s to those friends who lend an ear when we need to vent. To those who don’t offer platitudes like “at least you have…” or remind us that “things could be worse.” We’re already aware of that, and we don’t need guilt added to our worries. We need friends who let us complain about everything from our graying hair to the chaos of family life, understanding that these grievances, though trivial, are still valid.
Here’s to the friends who give us the space to feel sad, angry, or heartbroken over what we’ve lost in recent months—even if those losses are just the simple pleasures of daily life. They remind us that it’s okay to be emotional and that we don’t have to filter our feelings when we talk.
And let’s not forget the friends who make it clear that we can share our struggles because they do the same with us. They trust us with their vulnerable feelings, knowing that emotions can be irrational at times. They allow us to be our authentic selves.
During a crisis, we need our people more than ever. We rely on friends to remind us that we will emerge from this stronger. We cherish the friends who can lift our spirits with a humorous meme or a silly video. Most importantly, we appreciate those who love us even when we can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel because their support is a beacon of hope.
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In summary, friendships that allow us to express our true selves during difficult times are invaluable. They provide support, understanding, and a safe space for us to share our feelings without fear of judgment.