Friendship

How do I care for a friendship when our needs or capacities differ?

Friendship can offer affection, enjoyment, honest perspective and the experience of being known. Caring for it involves making time where we can, listening and expressing expectations rather than silently testing them. Reciprocity need not mean equal effort at every moment, especially when capacities differ. Reflection can help us recognise what sustains the connection and what needs a conversation. A shared past matters, while each person remains free to say what they can give now.

Sometimes friendship asks for nothing more elaborate than unhurried attention. We can ask whether our friend wants perspective, practical help or simply someone to hear them.

A question to sit with (optional): What do I value and contribute in this friendship, and what expectation needs to be spoken about?