The bigger picture – Day 20

All of us have those special photographs. Usually, it is a moment that was captured where you yourself was in the picture. That moment is just a small part of a much bigger picture.

I have a photo like that. In this picture, I am in the cockpit of a Boeing 737-800 with Capt. Tom Rautenbach. He is a training captain. In the photo, I am privileged enough to sit in the captain’s seat. However, I do not know anything about flying!

That photograph captured something of our friendship. As a friend, he allowed me into his personal space. Being part of this space helps me to understand his circumstances much better. He shared his passion and his love for his work. He allowed me to understand him in a wider context.

The value of friendship is all about trust, sharing of personal space, and shared values and norms. It is then when you can support one another and reach out in tough times, comfort one another in times of sorrow, help to calm and sooth shattered emotions, and bring perspective.

Many people go through life without friends. There are many reasons for that and it is very sad. Friends are so very precious and vital, as we cannot go through life alone. We need support at times and this is where friends play an important role in our lives.

Good friendships require nurturing just like any other relationships. It is a responsibility and one that is challenging, but immensely worthwhile. The fruit of this labour is plentiful.

What do your friendships look like?