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Diny Davis (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

“Friendship isn’t a big thing—it’s a million little things” – Paulo Coelho

Friendship is that warm, comforting glow that lights up our lives. It’s a connection that can feel as essential as the air we breathe, yet it’s one that requires nurturing, understanding and the willingness to develop. In a world where change is constant, how do we ensure that our friendships not only survive, but flourish? Let’s dive into the art of evolving with someone, growing together and maintaining those cherished bonds for a lifetime.

How to Evolve with Someone

In the journey of life, friendships are some of the most colorful paths, travelled through our joys, challenges and transformations. But as we evolve, so must our friendships. The secret to a lasting bond isn’t just shared history; it’s the ability to adapt and grow together. Here’s how:

Understanding and Acceptance

At the heart of any enduring friendship is understanding and acceptance. We all change over time, developing new interests, facing different challenges and sometimes, transforming in ways we never expected.

Embrace Changes

Recognize that your friend might develop new interests or change perspectives. It’s essential to embrace these changes, showing interest and support, even if you don’t fully understand them.

Communicate Openly

If your friend’s change seems to be causing a split, discuss it openly. Misunderstandings that are not addressed can create distance.

How to Support Each Other’s Growth

A true friend not only accepts change, but encourages growth. Whether it’s a career move, a new hobby or a personal achievement. Here is how you can be there for each other:

Be Their Cheerleader

Celebrate their victories, big and small. Let them know you’re proud of their growth.

Offer Help

If your friend is struggling with a change, be there to support them. Sometimes, just knowing someone is there can make all the difference.

Make New Memories

One of the joys of enduring friendship is plenty of shared memories. As you both evolve, it’s vital to continue creating new ones.

Try New Things Together 

Whether it’s taking a class, embarking on a trip or simply trying a new restaurant, new experiences can strengthen your bond.

Keep Up with Traditions

While trying new things is important, so is cherishing your traditions. They hold your friendship to its roots while allowing it to grow.

How to Navigate Life’s Challenges Together

Life, as we know, isn’t always smooth sailing. Facing problems together, however, can protect a friendship like nothing else.

Be a Constant

In times of change, be the constant in your friend’s life. Knowing they have someone so determined by their side can be incredibly reassuring.

Listen and Understand 

Sometimes, all we need is a listening ear and someone to understand our feelings. Be that person for your friend.

How to Embrace Mutual Respect and Love

At the foundation of every lasting friendship is mutual respect and love. This will enable us to not just enjoy each other’s company, but also respect each other’s boundaries and choices and love each other unconditionally.

Respect Boundaries

Understand and respect that your friend’s availability and priorities might change. It doesn’t mean they value your friendship any less.

Unconditional Love

True friendship means loving people, with all their flaws. It’s about sticking together, even when the going gets tough.

Friendships are like plants: they need care, nourishment and the space to grow. Let’s commit to being the kind of friend we would love to have. It’s the surest way to build and maintain the kind of friendships that light up and endure through every phase of our lives.

I dedicate this blog to my childhood friend, whom I lost on February 1, 2024 to a rare type of cancer. In the last 27 years of our friendship, she proved to be the best example of how a true friend should be. I will love and miss her forever.

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Diny Davis is an aspiring author who is passionate about fitness and a strong believer in the close connection between physical and mental health. She is a journalism, psychology and literature graduate, a loving wife and a caring mother who maintains a balance in her work and personal life while giving emphasis to self-care.