In 2011, Australia and dozens of other members of the United Nations designated July 30 as the International Day of Friendship. Their goal was to educate the public, to mobilise the political will to resolve global problems, and to celebrate the achievements of humanity.

Friendship promotes peace, inspires happiness, and encourages unity. These are important among individuals as well as nations.

A friend shows respect. A friend can show anger without violence. A friend can offer criticism without being abusive. A friend is a memory maker. A friend can share feelings and fears in complete confidence. A friend can help elaborate on an idea, can encourage reasoning, and can provide introspection — and still disagree with you.

True Selves

Friends compliment and complement each other. They share their strengths in the other’s weakness. A friend will help with no expectation of reward. Communication is essential in a friendship. A relationship without trust is not a friendship.

Sharing is important — as is the ability to share the friendship. One does not have to be all things to be a friend. He or she can allow that friend to be with others without jealousy.

The basis of a friendship can change, and people can change, but if the friendship remains, it will be that much stronger.

One need not wait until July 30 to celebrate a day of friendship. Do something nice for a friend; enjoy a coffee together or send a text message. Make a new friend! Offer an encouraging word to a stranger; get to know an internet acquaintance a little better.

By promoting the bonds of friendship and strengthening the ties of togetherness, we assist on a global scale the realisation of peace and stability of the planet.

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Photo by Marina Abrosimova.