Friends are the family we choose for ourselves

 

Friendship. One of the most difficult routes we navigate as we go through life. Over the years I've had times with loads of friends and others, like now, where I only have a few. Of those few, the majority have been there, by my side, for years. Maybe not always geographically close, and for some of them there have periods where we've not stayed in touch as often as we probably should have. 

The friendships I have now are less superficial. People who I can be myself with, without having to sugar coat my thoughts and feelings. 

I'm often geographically alone though, and sometimes, that's tough. Because I can't just go for a quick coffee or a walk and chat with them. The lifesaver over the past few months has been the myriad world of online communication. I've learnt to use Zoom, Facebook Rooms, and made a huge use of what's app. My 7yo knows how to use Zoom, and is an expert at using her class Teams notice board. 

But, just sometimes, you actually need to see people. In person, not on a screen.

One of my friends introduced me to the concept of Fika. The Swedish concept /state of mind that's an important part of their culture... Of making time for friends and colleagues to share a cup of coffee (or tea) and a little something to eat. Not rushing it in 5 minutes. Savouring it.

The people around me now are the ones that have chosen to be there. Through the highs and lows of my life. We weave our lives together, sometimes loosely, sometimes tightly. 

The social aspect of our lives has been largely missing over the past 5 ish months. But, I think I will definitely be adopting Fika once I can. Both in person and online, Fika is a tradition I think I need in my life.