In my early life, I found myself entangled in a web of alcohol, drugs, and bad decisions. A young man who struggled to say no, I battled feelings of inadequacy and a sense of not fitting in. For about twelve years, I chronicled the train wreck that my life had become—a result of my choices and my fault alone. The turning point occurred during a hospital stay when, what I believe was an angel, presented me with an ultimatum: stop the self-destructive behavior, or I wouldn't be walking this earth in three months. Petrified of dying, I embraced life and death and made the immediate decision to cease poisoning my body with alcohol and drugs.
Exiting the hospital, I faced the challenge of addressing my newfound commitment with my family. My parents, disappointed and disgusted, received my proclamation of giving up everything with skepticism. My dad's dismissive mutterings hinted at his disbelief, but at least he didn't scoff. Despite the strained family dynamics, my focus in this narrative is on friends.
Venturing to a couple of friends, I encountered responses like, "Come and have a beer, you weak prick." Stunned and unsure how to decline, I managed to utter the difficult word: NO. Many I used to drink with forgot about me, some treated me differently, but there was one friend who stood out. This mate never judged me, never treated me any differently, and to this day, we remain mates. Even though he continues to drink, I respect his choices. He never judged me like the others, and that, in my book, defines a true friend.
Life may have led us to lose contact a few times, but every reconnection reinforced that he remained unchanged. While I had transformed, he hadn't, and I've expressed my admiration for his consistent friendship. I've shared my spiritual journey, beliefs about the soul and the afterlife, and he's remained the same, accepting me without judgment.
I don't have many friends, and that's by choice. But the few I have, I cherish deeply. My love for friends and my boys runs profound. Connecting with someone on a soul level is an unparalleled experience. Today, I am blessed with beautiful and amazing friends, and I'm content with the ones I have. To them, I say thank you.
I've been open about my past with my new friends, and none of them judged. We've laughed about the old days, and they've always had my back, just as I have theirs. Real friends never judge, interfere without permission, or give unsolicited advice. True friendship is pure, intimate in a different way, devoid of lust but rich in soulful love.
If you have even one true friend, it can alleviate loneliness and the feeling of being unloved. Friendship love is different from spousal love and lust—it's purer. Evaluate your friends. If they respect you, never dictate your life, and worry about you in both good and bad times, hold onto them. Let go of the fake friends who offer bad advice and try to control your life.
Reflecting on the fake friends from my past, I realized their absence turned out to be a favor. Conquering my struggles, I saw the wisdom in removing toxic connections. So, if you have fake friends, cut ties. They can wreak havoc on your life. In my journey, both old and new friends, you are cherished. My love for you runs deep, and I am blessed to have such beautiful souls in my life.
Love, Light and Blessings