"A strong friendship doesn’t need daily conversation, doesn’t always need togetherness; as long as the relationship lives in the heart, true friends will never part."
Unknown
The first day of secondary school introduced me to Angela, a vibrant, smiling young girl who would soon become an irreplaceable part of my life.
Our initial encounter is etched in my memory: she approached me with a warm, welcoming energy and initiated a conversation. Though the specifics of our chat have faded, it marked the beginning of a lifelong bond. A few hours later, we found ourselves tumbling down a grassy hill, laughing uncontrollably as we joyfully declared our newfound best friend status.
The joys of growing old with a best friend, celebrating our unwavering bond that has stood the test of time, distance, and life's many milestones.
When we met at 12, we had no idea our lives would become so deeply intertwined. As the years passed, we faced countless challenges and triumphs together. From navigating the highs and lows of high school to embarking on our adult lives.
Our paths diverged as we entered our twenties when I moved to Australia. Despite the distance, our friendship remained strong. We stayed connected, sharing stories of our new adventures and providing comfort when life threw us curveballs.
One of the most memorable moments was when my best friend welcomed her son Myles into the world, and I had the honour of becoming his godmother. Being a part of her family's precious moments solidified the bond that transcended oceans and time zones.
Now, at 59, we've weathered many storms together and celebrated numerous victories. Our friendship has grown alongside us, maturing into a deep understanding and appreciation for one another. With each passing year, our shared experiences, laughter, and tears remind us of how lucky we are to have such an enduring connection.
Growing old together has taught us invaluable lessons about the importance of unwavering support, empathy, and companionship. We've realised that life's ebbs and flows can be embraced with greater resilience when we have someone to lean on.
Our friendship is a testament to the power of growing older together, a beautiful, lifelong journey filled with cherished memories, shared wisdom, and an unbreakable bond.
As we approach our 60s, I eagerly anticipate the adventures and milestones yet to come, knowing that we'll face them as we always have: side by side, as the best of friends.