The Lesson of Good Friendships

Friendship isn’t just about shared memories or inside jokes; it’s about finding people who stand by you through life’s most challenging moments. My journey with chronic illness has taught me so much about what true friendship looks like, and at the heart of it all is Grace, my forever friend.

Grace was there when high school didn’t start as I’d hoped; the start of my high school journey was filled with hospital stays, uncertainty, and a body that felt foreign to me. She saw past the weight gain from prednisone, the exhaustion, and the fear and reminded me of who I was. Grace didn’t just stay when things got hard; she stepped up, making me feel seen and loved when I felt like a stranger to myself.

But real friendships aren’t without challenges. Grace and I have had our share of ups and downs when jealousy and miscommunication tested our bond. Sometimes, I worried about losing her, especially as she formed new friendships while I was in the hospital and pursued her passions. I learned that friendship isn’t about clinging to someone out of fear but trusting the foundation you’ve built together.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that true friends show up, not just for the significant milestones but for the small, everyday moments. Grace has been there to celebrate my wins, hold me in my losses, and remind me of my worth when I doubted it. Through shared experiences like navigating dyslexia, we’ve embraced each other’s “glitches,” laughing together and supporting each other unconditionally.

Our friendship wasn’t always easy, but it was worth it. Hard conversations, moments of distance, and even heartache didn’t weaken our bond. That is what strengthened it. They taught us to communicate openly, forgive wholeheartedly, and love each other as we are, flaws and all.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: good friendships are messy, imperfect, and full of challenges. But they’re also transformative. They teach you loyalty, resilience, and the power of showing up for someone else. So, thank you to Grace and all the friends who make life a little brighter. You’ve shown me true friendship is one of life’s greatest gifts.