Among all the friends sitting in that photograph, Soni was the only one from my college with whom I occasionally spoke. With Aastha, it was just a polite “Ram Ram,” and with Prashant, a casual “Hi, Hello” once in a while, since both of them belonged to the Electronics & Communication branch, while Soni and I were in Computer Science.
Time moved on. Life changed its course. The ones who once shared the same bench with me, the ones who belonged to my own branch, are today hardly in touch. It’s not because of differences or disagreements - it’s simply because life no longer remains what it once was in our college days. Now, conversations are reduced to a quick reply on a WhatsApp status or perhaps a single phone call in an entire year.
Ironically, those with whom I had almost no conversation during college, those I barely spoke to back then, have today turned into not only close friends but also trusted guides and advisors. There is a unique charm in such bonds - a blend of comfort and awkwardness, where like-mindedness coexists with refreshing differences of opinion. This very diversity makes friendship both fascinating and beautiful.
That picture, in fact, was taken on Aastha’s birthday. And in that moment, it made me realize how relationships can evolve in ways we never imagine.
I sincerely hope that all my batchmates from JIMS College, whether near or far, get a chance to reconnect someday. Yet, in today’s world, expecting people to stay in constant touch is not realistic. Too often, it is misinterpreted - as selfishness, as formality, or even as flattery.
But through my own journey, I’ve learned one important truth: if you carry respect, affection, and goodwill in your heart for your friends and loved ones, do not keep it hidden. Express it while you can. Not only will it bring you peace and joy, but it will also leave your friends with warmth, gratitude, and a memory worth cherishing.
And that, after all, is what friendship should be about -
Caring. Respect. And the courage to express it.
End Note: As life moves forward, not every bond remains constant, but every connection leaves behind a lesson, a memory, or a feeling worth holding onto. Friendship isn’t measured by the frequency of conversations, but by the sincerity of emotions we carry for each other. So, wherever life takes us, let’s not hesitate to express our care, our respect, and our gratitude - because sometimes, a simple message can revive a bond, and a heartfelt expression can become a memory for a lifetime.
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