Friends: Our Everyday Flowers 🌸

 

Friends are the angels we don’t always recognize, disguised as the people who make us laugh, who challenge us to grow, and who offer us a soft place to land when life feels too heavy. If you have one or two of these gems in your life, treasure them and hold them close. They’re the everyday flowers we blossom with as life passes by, the beacons of hope and radiance when we feel lost in the dark.

This gratitude post is dedicated to friends the ones who stick with us even when we don’t always have it together, the ones who listen when we need to vent, and the ones who show us the true meaning of understanding and acceptance. But more than that, it’s inspired by the complexities of friendship, especially when things don’t go as expected.

When Friends Go Silent

Recently, I’ve been dealing with a friend who stopped taking my calls. No texts, no returned calls just radio silence. For someone like me, who values communication deeply, this feels like a punch to the gut. At first, my mind went into overdrive: Are they okay? Did I do something wrong? Should I try harder to reach them or just let it go?

This kind of situation can mess with your mental health if you let it. For days, I replayed our last conversations, looking for clues about what could have gone wrong. But then I realized something important: while it’s natural to want answers, we can’t force someone to be the friend we need. Friendship, like any relationship, is a two-way street.

This experience has taught me a lot about gratitude. Even though this friend’s silence hurt, it made me appreciate the friends who do show up, who answer my calls, and who make the effort to stay connected. It reminded me that friendship isn’t about quantity it’s about quality.

Lessons in Boundaries and Self-Worth

Three years ago, I made the tough decision to end a friendship because of a lack of communication. I’m the kind of friend who goes all out checking in, being there, and even sacrificing my own needs to make sure the people I care about are okay. But when that effort isn’t reciprocated, it leaves me feeling drained and unappreciated.

This time, though, I handled things differently. Instead of blaming myself or overthinking, I chose to focus on what I can control: how I respond. I made peace with the situation and redirected my energy toward the friends who consistently show up. This is a message for anyone going through something similar: your time and emotional energy are precious. Don’t waste them on people who don’t value you.

Friendship and Mental Health: A Lifeline 💚

Friendship is one of the greatest gifts we can give and receive, and its impact on mental health is profound. When life feels overwhelming, friends can be a source of comfort, helping us navigate the challenges we face. They remind us that we’re not alone and that our struggles don’t define us.

But it’s not just about receiving support. Being a good friend also boosts our own mental health. Acts of kindness, listening, and showing empathy all release feel-good hormones that help combat stress and anxiety. It’s a two-way street that nourishes both parties, fostering emotional resilience and a sense of belonging.

When a friend goes silent, as in my recent experience, it can feel destabilizing. It’s easy to internalize the situation and blame yourself, especially if you’re someone who gives your all in relationships. But moments like these are also an opportunity to reflect, grow, and recalibrate your expectations of others and yourself.

The Many Faces of Friendship 🎭

Friendship comes in many forms, and each one contributes uniquely to our lives:

a. The Listeners: Those who provide a safe space to share our thoughts, no matter how messy or incoherent they may be.

b. The Encouragers: Friends who uplift us, celebrating even our smallest wins.

c. The Tough-Love Givers: The ones who tell us the truth, even when it’s hard to hear, because they want us to grow.

d. The Lifelines: Friends who support us in tangible ways be it financial help, career advice, or just a much-needed hug.

e. The Fun-Seekers: The ones who brzing joy and laughter, reminding us to take life less seriously.

Some friends embody all these roles, while others shine in specific ways. I’m grateful for them all, but especially for those who fill in the gaps when life gets tough.

Gratitude for Understanding

Over the weekend, a dear friend of mine got married. Unfortunately, I couldn’t be there due to financial constraints, which left me feeling guilty. I kept apologizing, worried he might feel hurt. Instead, he brushed it off with a simple, “Come on, Beeba, what are friends for if we don’t understand each other?”

That moment was a reminder of what true friendship looks like understanding, grace, and acceptance. He even went a step further by asking if I wanted to speak to his new bride, which I did. Hearing her cheerful voice made me feel like I was part of their celebration, even from miles away. It was a moment of relief and gratitude, one I’ll cherish for a long time.

To my friend and his beautiful bride: Happy Married Life! 🎉 May your union be filled with love, laughter, and countless blessings. Knowing you, I have no doubt it will be one of the best of the best. (And yes, I just snuck in another joke because laughter is part of our friendship DNA.)

Navigating the Complexities of Friendship

Not all friendships are easy. Some are fraught with misunderstandings, unmet expectations, and emotional distance. But even in these challenging moments, there’s room for gratitude.

Take my friend who’s been ignoring my calls, for example. It’s frustrating, yes, but it’s also a chance to reassess what I value in a relationship. It’s a reminder to appreciate the friends who do pick up the phone, who check in without being asked, and who make an effort to stay connected.

It’s also taught me to be kinder to myself. Friendships, like all relationships, require effort from both sides. If someone isn’t willing to meet me halfway, that’s not a reflection of my worth it’s a sign that their priorities lie elsewhere.

A Mental Health Reminder

Friendship plays a critical role in maintaining our mental health. The right friends can:

1. Reduce stress: A simple conversation with a friend can release tension and provide clarity.

2. Combat loneliness: Knowing someone cares makes all the difference.

3. Encourage self-care: Good friends remind us to prioritize our well-being, even when we’re tempted to neglect it.

4. Boost resilience: Their support helps us bounce back from life’s setbacks.

On the flip side, strained or one-sided friendships can take a toll on our mental health. It’s okay to let go of relationships that drain you. Prioritizing your peace isn’t selfish it’s necessary.

A Call to Action

To everyone reading this, take a moment to reflect on your friendships. Who are the people who’ve been there for you, through thick and thin? Reach out to them today. Send a text, make a call, or even write a heartfelt letter. Let them know how much they mean to you.

And if you’re feeling hurt by a friend’s actions or inactions remember this: friendships evolve. Some grow stronger, while others fade. Focus on the ones that bring you joy and peace.

Final Thoughts

To my amazing friends, past and present: thank you for being part of my journey. Whether you’ve been a source of laughter, a shoulder to cry on, or a voice of reason, you’ve enriched my life in ways words can’t fully capture.

To my readers: cherish your friendships, but also cherish yourself. The love and respect you seek from others should start with you. And remember, it’s okay to let go of relationships that no longer serve you. Life is too short to hold onto what hurts you.

Here’s to friendship the everyday flowers that make our lives beautiful. 🌸

Sending you peace, love, and a reminder to call a friend today. 💛

What are you waiting for? Go celebrate the amazing people in your life!