The first Sunday of August is Friendship Day, a good time to revive friendships and acknowledge the value of old friends who really matter in many ways.
A few youngsters from Bhubaneswar shared their views on friendships with Orissa POST.
Sarah Mirza, an MBA from Cuttack, said, “We meet many people every day, but we can’t be friends with all of them. A real friend is one who stands with you in times of need, irrespective of whether you are rich or poor, ugly or handsome.”
“We need someone to share our feelings with, and I don’t think we can live a normal life without friends. My best friend is my younger sister. I love her, but I can also scold her if necessary. She is with me in every situation. Siblings can be your best friends, and sometimes parents can be too. I believe friendship comes from the heart. On International Friendship Day, I would love to see people wearing a friendship band around their wrists and also all the good wishes that pour out for friends. Be faithful, be loving, and you will have good friends.”
Jasleen Gulati, a student, said, “I made friends from my primary school days when I learned the valuable lesson that we should not get carried away by outward appearances blindly. I have friends who have helped me in many ways. However, I feel the concept of a ‘best friend’ is nothing but a constraint. Limiting yourself to one person or relying on that individual is something I consider being selfish.”
“Friendship means being selfless. The importance of friends in life is indescribable,” said Puja Deo from Hyderabad. “You can share secrets with friends. They can help to boost your self-confidence, keep you away from loneliness, share hilarious jokes and be partners in adventures. Being a friend teaches you to become a good listener and to support your friends when they need you. I hate a person who only remembers you when they need you.”
“I consider my mother as my best friend. But outside my home, my friends Sachin and Asish support me on my good and bad days. They encourage me in whatever I propose to do. Their assurance gives me confidence. I love being around such positive people. You’re not judged, there’s no drama, everyone just wants to relax and have a nice time. Having such real friends is indeed a blessing.”
A real friend is a person you can trust and share anything with, said Mir Nadim, a student. “Friends should be caring, loving and helpful to each other. A friend should be there beside you when you are in trouble. Sushavan has been my best friend since childhood. I think the celebration of friendship cannot be limited to just a single day. Every day should be a day to celebrate friendship.”
Bratati Baral, OP