How to Cultivate 40 Years of Incredible Friendships

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By: Lisa Thompson
Updated: Jan. 23, 2016
Originally Published: Sep. 29, 2015

Reflecting on my childhood, I never imagined that playing tag or picking teams for dodgeball would lead me to forge lifelong connections with three amazing women. Sometimes I ponder how we’ve managed to put up with each other for so long, but over four decades, we’ve built an unbreakable bond. Here’s what I believe has contributed to the enduring awesomeness of our friendships:

1. Send Notes: In our elementary days, we were the note-writing champions. Sure, email and texting are our go-tos now, but back then, our notes were filled with secret codes and silly doodles. Those little pieces of paper represented our own unique language, and receiving one today would evoke a wave of nostalgia.
2. Master the Art of Folding Notes: Only true friends can fold a note so tightly that even a parent would struggle to open it. We knew our secrets were safe with one another, and stashing notes in your pocket was essential to avoid embarrassing moments when they fell out in class.
3. Bike Rides: Remember bicycles? Not spin classes! We created countless memories on long rides, hiding behind trees to catch glimpses of cute boys, and sneaking money for candy bars from our moms. Those carefree days shaped our friendship.
4. Sleepovers: The ultimate sleepover rule: don’t sleep! We stayed up late, sharing secrets and laughter. And yes, pulling pranks like freezing bras was just part of the fun. Even today, certain songs can take me back to those unforgettable nights.
5. Watch Scary Movies Together: Who else but your best friends will reassure you that Freddy Krueger isn’t real? Those shared thrills created bonds that still make us laugh and scream together today.
6. Embrace Conflicts: Getting mad at one another is part of the journey. Apologizing and having heart-to-heart talks afterward strengthens the friendship.
7. Be There to Comfort: When your best friend is heartbroken over a bad relationship, be their shoulder to cry on. Let them know you understand, and you’ll be there for them, just as they would for you.
8. Celebrate Milestones: Attend each other’s weddings, shed some happy tears, and build connections with each other’s partners. Respecting each other’s significant others is crucial in maintaining strong friendships.
9. Welcome New Life: Celebrate the arrival of your friends’ children. Share the joys and challenges of motherhood, and be honest about your own struggles. It’s a comforting reminder that none of us have all the answers.
10. Support Through Loss: When a parent passes away, being there to grieve together makes a world of difference. I still cherish the support my friends showed me during my dad’s funeral, reminding me that true friendship stands the test of time.
11. Help Through Divorce: If your friend goes through a divorce, be that comforting presence. Share some laughs, vent together, and remind her she will come out stronger on the other side when she’s ready to love again.
12. Welcome New Partners: When your friend finds a new love, embrace them too. They’ll appreciate your long-standing loyalty, and you might even become friends with them as well.
13. Celebrate Each Other’s Kids: Take pride in each other’s children. Share parenting tips, laugh about the challenges, and remind each other of the joys of being a parent.
14. Stay Connected: Use social media, set up visits, and text each other randomly. Let them know how much they mean to you and that you can’t wait to create more memories together.
15. Follow Up: After spending time with your girlfriends, send them texts filled with excitement for the next gathering. Share a few funny photos to keep the laughter going.

Once you’ve navigated life’s ups and downs with these friends, you know they’re in it for the long haul. You might not talk every day, but when they reach out, you drop everything because that’s what friends do. These women may not share your DNA, but they are family in every sense of the word. For more insights into fostering strong relationships, check out this blog and learn more about building connections. If you’re considering starting a family, visit this site for reputable at-home insemination kits and check out this resource for information on pregnancy and home insemination.

In summary, nurturing friendships that last a lifetime requires effort, care, and commitment. By engaging in shared experiences, supporting each other through thick and thin, and maintaining open lines of communication, you can create a bond that withstands the test of time.