Two Minutes Du Jour

Friendships take many forms. Some last a lifetime, weathering all of life’s changes, while others are brief yet meaningful-perhaps during a shared experience or life stage.

Both types enrich our lives. I’m struck by how relationships evolve—some fading, others reigniting, and many new ones forming along the way.

My adult daughter is blessed with many friends. Her first friendship began at age three with a neighbor’s child. She added more connections at Montessori school, and by her fourth birthday, she was surrounded by a close-knit group of children. The kids scattered to different schools when first grade came, but a few bonds held strong for years.

Throughout her life—from elementary school to motherhood—her circle of friends grew and shifted, yet some relationships remained constant, as dependable and loving as the fictional characters in Sex and the City. These are the friends who know us deeply, stand by us unconditionally, and celebrate life’s milestones with us.

Not all friendships are meant to last forever, though. Some connections are fleeting but still significant. I remember my daughter, being heartbroken (fifth grade at the time) when a friendship formed during a two-hour flight couldn’t extend beyond that day. But even short-lived relationships have value, offering moments of joy and human connection.

Recently, I rediscovered a connection from 40 years ago. My sister forwarded me a birthday mention of my former journalism professor—a mentor who profoundly shaped the direction of my career.

To my delight, she’s still writing and has a new blog, I Was Young Once But I Got Over It. I’ve subscribed and plan to send her a note to express my gratitude. Will we reconnect beyond this? Perhaps not, but just reaching out is fulfilling.

Reconnecting doesn’t have to lead to lifelong bonds. It could be as simple as sending a quick message to someone who made a difference in your life. Look through old photos, yearbooks, or your social media feed for inspiration.

Be open to meaningful exchanges in the moment—whether it’s rekindling a friendship or sharing a kind word with a stranger. After all, the best way to make a friend is to be a friend.

Two Links Du Jour:

I Used to be Young, But I Got Over It – my magazine-journalism mentor’s blog

What Sex and the City Taught Me About Friendship – Medium