The present world we live in is a sad one. What makes it worse, is the lack of true friends and acquaintances.
We have many so-called "friends" on social media, some in real life, but can we consider most of them as true friends? Many claim to be your friend, but usually are the complete opposite; jealousy and selfishness run in their blood and minds. So, if you have some friends in your life who you can trust blindly, those who respect you and know your worth, then consider yourself lucky.
It's not about status, money, or benefits to them; you and them, both parties have mutual respect and understanding, you share common interests, and love being in each other's company. Honesty and trust go a long way, and trust requires small tests, that come naturally as we progress ahead with the ups and downs of life.
The people who are with you during your worst, and sometimes your best, are the people who will always be there. Because the relationship isn't transactional in any way, and it is just meant to be...
A while ago we had a little clan meet-up. We have this little clan of about 20-30 people, who game together.
Most of us have known each other for over half a decade now. What started as a game, and an online relationship, has transformed into quite a wholesome group of people. We don't even game anymore, not as much as we used to; we barely can manage time to play together. Yet, now and then, we do have our Discord chats and watch parties, and once a year we have these meet-ups; where we all get together and spend some quality time together.
People from all around the country, and even the world come over and try to attend.
We have people from different divisions, districts, and continents even, who are interested in attending. So, usually plan these meetups during the holiday. Whenever most are back in the country or at least free to join. Some of these members are currently living abroad for higher studies.
We usually try and go for a rooftop restaurant for our meetups, since these spots have the most space, and it doesn't feel as crowded. That day we took over the whole place and were there from around 4 PM to around 8 PM. From late noon lunch to evening coffee, complemented with some late evening downpour; it was one hell of a day.
Not to mention while coming back home, I got absolutely soaked due to heavy rainfall. Fortunately, when heading back home, I found a rickshaw at the right spot, for which I didn't have to walk through a knee-deep flood. It was quite problematic, getting back home, but I kinda enjoyed it really.
The scene that day was full of people from different generations, from teenagers to dudes in their late 20s to early 30s. All in one big meetup, thanks to the love and interest in gaming. From total strangers on the internet to creating quite a strong bond and friendship.
We enjoyed our lunch that day in the outdoor area, a lengthy hour of chit-chat among different groups and topics. Talking about how life has changed in these past 4 to 5 years or so, and how time has managed to pass by in the blink of an eye.
Just as we were starting to enjoy each other's company, reminiscing the old days, right then and there it started to rain quite heavily. So, we made our way into the closed area of the restaurant, as it started raining quite heavily. We ordered some coffee and carried on with our conversations; talks about present and future plans, work, studies, family, and whatnot.
When we started playing these games, most of these folk here were teenagers or in their early 20s, now most of them are either in their early or mid-20s.
There was a time when we used to hang out on Discord almost every day and play games. But these days the Discord servers are empty, and none have the surplus of time to invest in gaming or other hobbies.
I guess we will all meet again soon, we'll try to at least, maybe a year later. But, how much will our lives change by then? For better or for worse? None can say for sure. Yet, I hope that everyone will be there when the time comes.
I like the way you value deep connection. It's rare in today's society, where everyone seeks validation from others instead of nurturing relationships with people who genuinely care:)
Mutual respect for one another, understanding, and trust, such things can't be bought; no matter how much money you are willing to spend. I believe I am blessed, to have these friends and acquaintances whom I can trust blindly. People with whom I love to spend time, even though I prefer my solitude 80% of the time. Yet, when these people call for a meetup or get-together, whether it's online or in real life, I can never deny them.
Most people insult me that my best friend is local and ugly but I don’t just look at looks. I go for their heart and how useful the person is to me. My best friend is someone everyone will always wish to have by their sides. So many people have fake friends and they always believe that they already have friends when they start wearing matching outfits and it does not work like that. Friendship does not end there
Then I say you are lucky, and so is she, to have a true friend. I believe such a friendship will always last long, sometimes forever.