The Importance Of Getting Together With Old Friends

A watched a very interesting video a few weeks ago on the importance of old friends (you can view it yourself by clicking here!), and while I definitely agree with its merits, it wasn't until this past weekend that the importance of its points really stuck home. The merit of the argument here is that although we think that we were only friends with certain people at a certain time in our lives (during school, at the one job, etc.), we have to still carve time out to spend with them, for our own growth and sanity.

Being around an old friend re-awakens old feelings of empathy, sensitivity and understanding that we once had which crafted us to become the people we are now. And apparently, a constant reminder of that old character helps to ensure our current present being remains as compassionate and open to newness as we once were. I strongly encourage you to view the short video to get a better understanding of this.

And so, fast forward to last weekend, when one of my oldest friends in the world came to Toronto for a work trip, and obviously carved time out to spend with Monika and I. As we sat in our living room, reminiscing about high school / university days and the jokes and the troubles from that time, it all came together. Now being able to laugh at what used to make me so upset back in the days is exactly the reminder of humanity, humility and encouragement that I needed at this moment of my life.

If not for chatting and laughing with an old friend, I would not have been reminded of my growth since that time, and how much I appreciate everything that I enjoy now. In the hustle and bustle of life (especially one which we live in a digital age), its so easy to always think ahead and never look back. But I am a testament to the importance of spending time with an old homie, who in turn will re-awaken an older version of yourself in yourself.