A Ted Talk about Friendships
True friendships have an incredible ability to lift us up when we are at our lowest points, reminding us of our worth, and potential, and inspiring us to keep moving forward. The impact of these friendships extends far beyond the challenges of a single year; they shape the course of our lives and become a wellspring of strength and resilience.
The year 2022 began with great promise, but little did I know that it would soon throw me into a whirlwind of heartbreak. It turned out to be a year that could have been considered my lowest, yet it was during this time that I discovered my greatest strength and made a solid impact. And the reason behind it all was friendship.
In 2022, I faced various hardships, from the end of a four-year relationship to the loss of a parent. These experiences were far from what I had anticipated, and as I reflect on the challenges of that year, I am humbled by the strength and unwavering support of my friends. They became my lifeline, pulling me through the storms, allowing me to heal, and providing a safe space for me to express my frustrations. They reminded me of the resilience within me when I needed it the most.
Observing my parents while growing up, I witnessed the power of building genuine relationships with others. This lesson became even more evident when I lost my dad. People showed up and demonstrated their kindness and support, creating a sense of unity and togetherness. Imagine a world where everyone showed kindness, regardless of their differences. Imagine a world where every corner you turned, there was a supportive shoulder to lean on. In a world where isolation is becoming increasingly prevalent and screens dominate our lives, it is crucial for us to recognize the significance of genuine human connections.
Friendships have the remarkable ability to break down social barriers that often divide communities. They build and strengthen communities. I am currently part of a community of women, Lady with Balls who exemplify this transformative power. It is a diverse community, comprising women from various backgrounds, yet we come together and show up for one another in times of joy and even in sorrow. We demonstrate empathy, bridging gaps and creating an inclusive society. Friendship is not solely about forming personal connections; it is also a catalyst for community development. Within this community, I have witnessed friendships evolve into collaborations that have had a positive impact on society.
Through intentionally building friendships, I have learned how to be a better person, not only for the emotional well-being of others but also for my own. Friendship has been instrumental in my healing process.
I have been approached by several individuals who were individuals who were inspired by my posts about friendship and went on to work on fostering their own meaningful connections. It is heartwarming to see the intentionality of spreading friendship and kindness, one person at a time. Just imagine the ripple effect that occurs when they, in turn, share their stories and inspire others. It becomes a collective impact on society, all through the power of friendship.
An article on Harvard Business Review, titled “The Power of Work Friends,” talks about Gallup’s latest findings showing that since the start of the pandemic, having a best friend at work has had an even greater impact on important business outcomes. I have work friends with whom I have done impactful community work outside our normal work environment.
In conclusion, the challenges of 2022 highlighted the tremendous impact of friendships in my life. They provided me with strength, support, and a sense of belonging during times of difficulty. Witnessing the transformative power of friendships has reinforced the importance of cultivating meaningful connections and promoting community development. Friendships have the potential to create positive change and foster a more inclusive and compassionate society. Leveraging their collective strengths, friends can drive positive change and shape the values and direction of their communities. Ultimately, friendships are the foundation upon which stronger, more inclusive, and harmonious societies can be built.
