The meaning of Friend
Saturday, May 23rd, 2009“Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born” – Anais Nin
I was talking with someone I consider a friend last night about the concept of a friend – how do you define friend? I think most of the time we tend to get caught up in the traffic of our own lives – work, relationships, family stuff – and we tend to forget the people around us until something happens at which point our help, support and care is needed. In those times we can change our perception of humanity. Being the one in need, we expose where we are most vulnerable, and being the person to help we learn what it is to care, and through projection we are able to experience both. Can you imagine if we lived such a way without needing tragedy to inspire it? If everyday through genuine care and genuine vulnerability we en-richen our experience of being human and break down the barriers of fear?
When I was living in Germany during my show-jumping career, I remember a very dear friend of mine used to call me everyday – just to check in. To me, it was one of the greatest gifts someone could ever give me. Despite feeling very clear and motivated as to why I chose to be so far away – there was something missing; friendship – a nurturing of my soul. I am forever grateful for Pamela Cafritz for her love and care during that time and for creating a new world for me – a world where people care.
