Friendship lessons from the Forest

“You can’t stay in your corner of the Forest waiting for others to come to you. You have to go to them sometimes.” ~A. A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh

Today’s quote is an old favorite of mine — and it merits repeating. Each time I read it, I recall another friendship lesson I’ve learned through trial and error.

Years ago, when my son was a kid, we’d socialize periodically with the parents of his friends. We’d have family potlucks and parties in our homes, with most of us taking turns to host. After a while, some of the parents stopped hosting, though they’d happily attend when other parents initiated a gathering. Eventually, the group lost its momentum — and lost touch.

The lesson? Friendship — solo or in a group — won’t survive without mutual energy; a balance of give and take. All said and done, the healthiest relationships thrive on a cycle of initiation, participation, and reciprocation. Sadly, the ones that fall apart are usually lacking in one of those areas. ~CL