Friendships

Friendships are more complicated than people give them credit for. Andy told me recently he’s a devout Christian. It was blunt and yet casual- like a new hairstyle or a manicure. I was shocked and alarmed, it was comical, and then just a little frightening. I didn’t understand. Only then did I realize that it’s very hard to accept something you can’t comprehend. And only then did I realize how little I really knew my “best mate”. Don’t get me wrong- he’s a wonderful guy. Kind and thoughtful and able to get along with anyone. But secretive. Small on details. I’d never been to his house when he lived in Aus. Andy never talked about his family. I guess I spent most of our time together talking about myself- and he spent it listening. Only now do I realize what kind of relationship we had- and what it had the potential to be. I don’t regret what we had- quite the opposite. I treasure every moment the three of us spent together, those afternoons at “our bench”. I suppose I’m a little nostalgic, is all. Andy wasn’t- isn’t- all I had him pinned for. He’s wonderful, yes. He’s funny, yes. And then, there is so much more to him I’ve never known. Perhaps it’s better that way. That Anushka and I are still close is a blessing I give thanks every day for. Without her, I would be nothing. I would have nothing. We are kindred spirits. Best friends. We are one, and yet we are individuals. It’s the sort of friendship Anne and Diana had. Pooh and Piglet, Bill and Ben. The sort that always changes and never dies. The only other person I can honestly say I have that with anymore is my Mother. She is amazing. I’ve said it all before. She is my heart and soul and the day she dies, I will lose my other half. A far cry from the intense hate I harbored for her as a young teen. Friendships change and are complicated and are wonderful. It’s a bit like falling in love, isn’t it? Not that I’m all that experienced in that respect.