These friendships are truly what allows me to be the person I am today (not to be dramatic or anything…). They allow for a space to learn and grow amongst like-minded people. I believe you experience life with friends in such a different way than you do a romantic partner.
This is why I find it frustrating when so much more emphasis is put on dating and seeking out romance; it's inescapable. As a result, establishing, nourishing, and valuing platonic relationships is almost cast aside and deemed as a given. While this is probably one of the most essential of them all, and a lot harder to find than some may realise.
I find the beauty in healthy platonic relationships is found in how there are no expectations from one another, no pressure.
Don’t get me wrong, romantic relationships are also amazing and can be a safe and happy space! However, when I look back on times when I believed I would be better off alone or accidentally prioritising romantic relationships over those with the people around me, I am regretful.
These relationships are spaces without judgment where you can truly be yourself and allow another person to do the same while also always being held accountable. I also find the beauty in healthy platonic relationships is found in how there are no expectations from one another, no pressure. There is no clearly defined end goal – and while this is daunting, you must remember, it’s also freeing! You aim to do nothing other than to accompany, support and have fun together. I mean, where’s the fun in charity shopping and grabbing boba solo when I could do it with a pal?
It is freeing knowing that you can openly be yourself, and these people will love you no matter what and vice versa.
Coming to university and being faced with all the inevitable trials and tribulations that come with the transition has made me realise this even more. There's comfort in knowing as lost as I may feel, I'm not alone. I always hear the statement creating a ‘village’. I love this so much because this is truly what it is: fortifying your relationship with friends and family gives a sense of security like no other. It is freeing knowing that you can openly be yourself, and these people will love you no matter what and vice versa. I know now this energy shouldn’t be reserved solely for my future spouse, but instead extended to all the people that I care for.
Where romantic love is sometimes limited and cannot reach, platonic love has and will always be. This is truly something I cannot deny.
