The Value of Close Friendships: A Personal Inquiry

Have you ever considered whether it’s better to have many friends, a few close friends, or befriend as few as possible? This question has been on my mind for quite some time, and my personal experiences have influenced my perspective.

For the past 3 years and 6 months, 21 of my friends have drifted away, some of them best friends with whom I had a deep and meaningful connection. Over the last 15 years, many of these friendships endured, but sadly, they all but disappeared in a blink of an eye. The only lasting friendship that remained intact was with a woman who happened to be the most wonderful person I ever shared a close bond with. However, even this ended a few weeks ago, forcing me to dissolve the friendship to protect her and myself.

As of today, December 8, 2023, at 5:51 pm, I find myself with only four friends. Among them, one lives about 3 hours away, while the others are within a 2.1-mile distance. I value my friendships that rely on mutual effort and understanding. Despite my efforts to stay in touch, some friendships are strained by the demands of daily life.

The Impact of Few and Close Friends

Having a small circle of close friends holds significant value for me. While I enjoy meeting and socializing with many people, the quality of the connection is more important than the quantity.

I find joy in talking freely with a few select individuals who share common values and experiences. These close friends are essential to my well-being, and I prioritize building strong, meaningful connections with them. I also appreciate when their children become friends with my children, fostering a deeper bond across generations.

Trust and Morals in Friendships

Trust and shared values are the cornerstones of a genuine friendship. People with strong moral principles are the best friends to have, as they reflect integrity and reliability. The friendship I dissolved with the woman who lived just around the corner taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of clear communication and mutual respect.

While maintaining these close friendships, I also recognize the value of having a broader social circle. However, I believe that being a "giver" often attracts more people wanting to take than share. The key lies in striking a balance—being there for my close friends, while also engaging in meaningful conversations and interactions with a wider group of acquaintances.

Conclusion

Ultimately, I prefer to have a few close friends over a large group of acquaintances. Quality over quantity is what matters to me. While I enjoy meeting various people and engaging in conversations, the depth of my closest friendships enriches my life in ways that a larger social circle cannot.

If you have any further questions or would like to share your thoughts on this matter, feel free to reach out to me. Personal experiences can often provide valuable insights, and I would love to hear from you.