“The shifts of fortune test the reliability of friends.”
– Cicero, Roman lawyer, (BC 106 – BC 43)
It’s pretty easy to be there for someone when they get promoted, have a baby, get married or have a mortgage burning party.
Consistent presence — true friendship — means that we’re there when they lose a job, lose a baby, get divorced or lose the house.
The mood will be different. The importance of our presence will not.
Rudy Giuliani, the former mayor of New York City, said, in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, “Weddings are optional, funerals are compulsory.” I get his point. But, if making a difference is our goal — presence is compulsory.
Dan Miske says
So True. I think of my own failings at times in this regard and appreciate your post to remind me to do better. Thanks, Dan