A friend in need

“A friend in need is a friend indeed” is a proverb that says a true friend is someone who helps you when you are in trouble rather than leaving you to fend for yourself.

Namrata personally believes that a true friend is the one, who can hear your inner voice and extend help effortlessly without even having to ask for. It is wise to have a handful of friends for life rather than a long list of names appearing in phone or social media contact. A true friend need not be the one with whom you talk for lengthy hours or frequently meet, but rather the one with whom you can have a spiritual deep connection. You may not speak in years, but when you meet there is no room for complaints. A friend should not be only present for partying on your birthday or going to a movie together, mainly to share your most needed moments.

It so happened to live this concept, when a few months back one of the close friends of Namrata needed that support and the situation was difficult to open up to anyone. Her absolutely brilliant, headstrong yet introverted friend required her for the first time and it was a privilege that she considered Namrata. Namrata’s friend has been a pillar of strength for everyone in her family and friends’ circle. This was the time when she was going through this arduous situation and reached out to someone outside her family for help. It was a true test for Namrata and Nitin to immerse themselves in the need of the hour, and hold their energy and patience both.

It was a month’s perseverance for Namrata, to have faith in herself and her friendship. She even had strong support from Nitin who promptly encouraged her to stay at the friend’s place and devote fully. Namrata being a selectively social person, was well known not to leave her place even for a night. Hence it came as a big surprise to many in her circle that she was away for a long period of time.

This whole month was a true awakening for her as well, almost no outside food, no television watching, minimal phone access, extensive gardening, walking; helped to strengthen her discipline. It motivated her to spend ample time with friend’s daughter teaching her a few skills. It taught her to keep patience and always look for the best in any situation.

A good time about hard times is, just like the good times it does not last long, however, there is this critical time window when everyone needs a little hand-holding to sail through that sinking feeling.

Seeming perfect families with financial stability, and nice houses, kids may be having difficulties that we can never dream of. Hence be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.