Monday, March 26, 2012

Friends

What is a friend?

A friend is:

The ability to be oneself, express one's feelings and make mistakes without fear of judgement

Mutual understanding and compassion; ability to go to each other for emotional support

The tendency to desire what is best for the other

Aristotle writes that "the excellent person is related to his friend in the same way as he is related to himself, since a friend is another self; and therefore, just as his own being is choiceworthy him, the friend's being is choice-worthy for him in the same or a similar way

Friendship is:

Friendships are high in quality when they have high levels of positive features and low levels of negative features

Friendship is a form of interpersonal relationships generally considered to be closer than association

All of these definitions were obtained from Wikipedia. And they only represent a small portion of what was included in the definition of "friendship." Wikipedia went on to define friendships with children, friendship through adolescence and friendships during adulthood. They outlined studies on friendships and the decline of close relationships within our ever changing society. But to these two sweet girls above, friendship means something very different. I believe it to be a very simple concept. My Paloma absolutely adores her "best friend" Abby. She has fun with her, plays games with her, plays baby dolls with her, pretends to be Justin Bieber with her, makes cards for her, wants to go to McDonalds with her, and quite frankly just likes hanging out with her. This is the first real friend Paloma has made that she doesn't have to "share" with her sister.

I have loved watching this friendship grow and blossom. They are so opposite in personality and nature but have truly enjoyed each other. We are so sad to see Miss Abby and her family move. I think Paloma will always remember this very special friendship. Miss Abby - you will be missed. Thank you for all you have done and all that you are. You have complimented Paloma well and we love you for that!

1 comment:

Jodie said...

My Abby has been absolutely blessed to find such a friendship like the one these two share. Paloma is such a kind hearted, fun loving spirit and I am truly going to miss watching the day to day interaction between our girls. Heather you are an amazing mother and lead by example and absolutely exemplify what it means to be a true friend to your girls. Not only have my El and Ab been forever impacted by their friendships with Paloma and Mattea, I too feel like I have found a friendship that will endure the miles and the laughter, enlightening conversation and compassionate understanding will continue on through the years. I am so thankful for you and your family and absolutely refuse to let our friendships fade. Thank you my sweet friend.