The Sound of Friendship: Cherishing Connections

‘Friendship is a single soul dwelling in two bodies.’

– Aristotle (384–322 BC). He was a renowned Ancient Greek philosopher and polymath. His extensive writings encompass a wide array of subjects including the natural sciences, philosophy, linguistics, economics, politics, psychology, and the arts. By establishing the Peripatetic school of philosophy in the Lyceum in Athens, he initiated the enduring Aristotelian tradition that laid the foundation for the advancement of modern science.

Dear readers, have you ever thought of relating friendship to sound? Have you ever wondered about the sound of friendship?

If friendship has a sound, what would it be? What would the sound of friendship be like when it is good? And conversely, what would it sound like when it is bad?

Imagine this: if your friendship had a soundtrack, what would it sound like? Would it be a gentle hum of laughter-filled conversations or an energetic beat of shared adventures?

Or perhaps, could it be a silent, comforting presence we often overlook? Would it be an ecstatic laughter of inside jokes understood only by the two of you?

Or could it be a comforting silence shared during long drives or quiet evenings? ….

Let us delve into the soundscapes of friendships and explore how these auditory elements play a significant role in cherishing our connections.

I have learned throughout my journey of life that friendship is a lifestyle that has been celebrated and cherished throughout human history.

It is seen as a bond that transcends time and space and can provide support, comfort, and companionship.

It is a dynamic symphony, constantly evolving with different phases marking different sounds.

When friendship is good, the sound of it is harmonious and melodic, like a symphony of laughter, shared secrets, and genuine connection.

It is the sound of two or more voices blending in perfect unison, creating a beautiful melody of understanding and support.

The sound of good friendship is warm and inviting, like a soft breeze on a summer day, comforting and calming in its presence.

Conversely, when friendship is bad, the sound of it is dissonant and discordant, like a cacophony of misunderstandings, betrayals, and hurtful words.

It is the sound of voices clashing and conflicting, creating a jarring and unpleasant noise that disrupts the harmony and peace that should exist in a true friendship.

The sound of bad friendship is cold and harsh, like a bitter wind that cuts through you, leaving you feeling isolated and alone.

At its core, sound is a fundamental aspect of communication. The laughter, the spoken words, the gentle humming of a trusted friend’s voice—these are the sounds that lay the foundation of our relational interactions.

But the sound of friendship goes beyond mere words. Non-verbal sounds like sighs of relief, shared silence, and even the absence of sound can carry profound meaning.

Imagine the reassuring calmness in a friend’s quiet presence … that soundless moment holds immense weight.

But, why does friendship sound different depending on its quality? The answer lies in friendship itself. Good friendship is built on trust, communication, and mutual respect.

It is a bond that is nurtured and cultivated over time, with both parties investing time and effort into maintaining and strengthening the connection.

When friendship is good, the sound of it reflects the depth and strength of the bond between friends, creating a harmonious and uplifting melody that resonates with joy and love.

On the other hand, bad friendship is often characterized by a lack of trust, communication, and respect. It is a bond that is shallow, superficial, and easily broken.

When friendship is bad, the sound of it reflects the underlying discord and tension that exists between friends, creating a dissonant and unsettling noise that disrupts the natural flow of connection and understanding.

The sound of a bad friendship is filled with negativity and toxicity, leaving both parties feeling drained and unhappy.

Is it possible to change the sound of friendship from bad to good? The answer is YES with effort and commitment from both parties.

Just as a musician can tune their instrument to create a beautiful melody, friends can tune their relationship to create a harmonious and uplifting connection.

Connections are the strings that bind us in the intricate melody of life. At the heart of every meaningful friendship is the essence of connection.

It transcends mere acquaintanceship and evolves into a bond that withstands the tests of time and circumstance. They are the lifelines that sustain us, uplift us, and give us purpose.

In our fast-paced and digitalised world, it is even more important than ever to pause and cherish the connections we have with others.

These connections can come in many forms – friendships, romantic relationships, familial bonds, or even connections with strangers. Each connection is unique and holds its special significance.

Perhaps one might ask, like I used to think: why is connection so crucial in our friendship? The answer lies in the very essence of what it means to be human.

We are created by God as social beings, wired to seek out relationships and connections with others. Connections provide us with a sense of belonging, support, and validation.

They allow us to share our thoughts, feelings, and experiences with someone who truly understands and cares.

Without meaningful connections, we can feel isolated, lonely, and disconnected from the world around us. A lack of connection in a relationship can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction, resentment, and unhappiness.

Therefore, it is vital to have open and honest communication with the other person to explore if the connection can be strengthened.

So, how can we cherish connection for the best sound of friendship? In the Bible, the sound of friendship is often depicted through verses that emphasise the virtues of loyalty, companionship, and love between friends.

One of the most famous passages on friendship in the Bible is found in Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

This verse highlights the unwavering support and steadfast love that true friends offer each other, especially in times of need.

May we not be afraid to show vulnerability and authenticity in our relationships. True connection requires honesty, openness, and a willingness to share our true selves with others.

Be willing to take risks, be vulnerable, and let down our guard. This can help create a deeper bond with the other person and foster a sense of closeness and connection.

By practising empathy, forgiveness, and open communication, friends can transform the discordant sound of bad friendship into the melodic sound of good friendship, filled with joy, love, and understanding.

In conclusion, the sound of friendship reflects the quality of the bond between friends. When friendship is good, it is harmonious and melodic, like a symphony of understanding and support.

When friendship is bad, it is dissonant and discordant, like a cacophony of misunderstandings and hurtful words.

But with effort and commitment, friends can transform the sound of their friendship from bad to good, and from good to even better, creating a beautiful melody of joy, love, and connection.

Just as music has the power to soothe and uplift the soul, so too can the sound of good friendship flow with the grace of God, bringing comfort and peace to all who hear its melody.

Dear readers, let us reach out to a friend today, listen with an open heart, empathize with their feelings, and cherish the moments of connection that make friendships truly special.

As we reflect on the beautiful symphony of friendship and the cherished connections it brings, let us remember the power of being present and listening truly and deeply.

These moments of genuine interaction are what strengthen our bonds and fill our lives with joy and meaning.

I look forward to connecting with you next week as we explore “the art of listening and cultivating deep connections”. Until then, may the melody of friendship continue to brighten our days…and nights.

The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.