On the very first day of my college journey, I had no idea that two extraordinary women would forever alter my life. One was a quick-witted, sarcastic soul who shared my major, while the other—a similarly spirited individual—moved in just across the hall from me.
As we navigated the challenges of being away from home for the first time, we bonded over late-night laughter and a shared disdain for our outdated Catholic school uniforms. Our friendship blossomed in those early months, and two decades later, we remain as close as ever.
These remarkable women, my closest friends, have gone on to excel in their careers and embrace motherhood with grace. Though life keeps us apart more than we’d like, they are my chosen family. In times of crisis, they are the ones I would call without hesitation, and I can confidently say that if I found myself in jail, they would be right there beside me, sharing the experience.
Their influence on my heart is indelible, and over the years, they’ve shown me what authentic friendship truly means—without the clichés and saccharine sentiments often portrayed in movies. They are the kind of friends who embrace me, imperfections and all. On those tough parenting days, I can call them from my closet, and they’ll respond with, “Girl, same here!” when I admit I sometimes need a break from my kids. Their unconditional love is reciprocated wholeheartedly.
Just as couples often reaffirm their vows after decades of marriage, I think it’s vital to renew our commitments to our friendships as well. Relationships may shift and evolve, but true friends endure. They stand by you through thick and thin, ready to support you until the end.
And so, I make this pledge to my college best friends and all the incredible companions I’ve gathered along the way:
- I will never judge you when you vent about your kids—because let’s be honest, kids can be a handful.
- I promise to avoid hosting parties that require you to purchase any overpriced items, like jewelry or leggings, in my home.
- If you’re having a difficult day, I will always offer you a glass of wine. And if it happens to be 9 a.m., I won’t hesitate to join you for a little day drinking to ease the awkwardness.
- I vow to side with you when you’re upset with your partner and to welcome him back when you’re ready to forgive.
- When you seek my opinion on that new skirt, I will be truthful, and I expect the same honesty in return.
- During your moments of grief, I will show up with food and handle your laundry while staying up late to lend a listening ear. Whatever you need, I’m here for you.
- I will cherish the times when our communication consists of silly memes exchanged throughout the day.
- I’ll keep your secrets safe—like that one time you had a few too many drinks and ended up a little too close to the bushes.
- If anyone dares to speak poorly of you, I will swiftly put a stop to it. No one badmouths my friends.
- You can count on me to share the carpool duties. I may not be dressed up and might arrive late, but I’ll take your kids to soccer without complaint.
- I promise not to cringe if you call me about your embarrassing issues—because we’ve all been there.
- If you share your dreams with me, I’ll do my utmost to help make them a reality. I’ll always be the supportive friend you can count on.
- Should you stray onto a risky path, I’ll gently nudge you back on track, even if it means facing your frustration.
- When we have disagreements, I will strive to understand your perspective, even if it means acknowledging my own shortcomings. I will always apologize sincerely if I hurt your feelings.
- I will love you through your mistakes, reminding you that they do not define you.
- Together, we will reminisce about the carefree days before the responsibilities of parenthood weighed us down. I’ll help you reconnect with that wild spirit when life feels overwhelming.
- I will always remember how you’ve contributed to shaping the person I am today.
- I will treasure our friendship and proudly call you my friend.
- I’ll always be here, ready with a hug, a beer, or a Band-Aid—whatever you need. Our memories are cherished, and our secrets are held tightly, just as true friends do.
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Summarizing, true friendship is an enduring bond that requires nurturing and commitment. Just as we renew vows in romantic relationships, we must also reaffirm our dedication to our friends, embracing each other’s flaws and supporting one another through life’s ups and downs.