“Friendship is a fundamental part of being human, built on trust, love, and shared memories. At its heart lies a deep connection between people, marked by mutual affection, understanding, and support. From childhood friends to lifelong confidants, friendships provide support, joy, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world.”
It is also highly valued and rooted in biblical teachings. Proverbs 17:17 states, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity,” highlighting the unwavering nature of true friendship. Jesus Christ showed the essence of friendship with his disciples, saying in John 15:15, “I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” This illustrates the transformative power of friendship in creating deep, spiritual connections.
Friends can offer us emotional support, reduce stress, encourage us for personal growth, and can even contribute to a longer life. However, because it is built on love and trust, friendships can face challenges through misunderstandings, conflicts, and life changes. Although with effective communication and willingness, we overcome these issues, it is also important to recognize and address toxic friendships that bring negativity or imbalance.
At LIGHT MFI Family, friendship is central to our mission. We emphasize building strong relationships among members, clients, and staff. These connections are crucial for empowering individuals and communities. By fostering friendships based on trust and support, LIGHT MFI creates an environment where people can thrive, share knowledge, and uplift each other, supporting our goals of sustainable development and financial inclusion.
Friendship enriches our lives in many ways. Whether it’s the bond between childhood friends, colleagues, or within a faith community, each type of friendship adds value. Investing in our friendships creates a network of love and trust that enhances our overall well-being.
In celebration of the International Day of Friendship this July 30, 2024, let us recognize and honor the friendships that shape our lives and communities, and commit to fostering these invaluable connections with care and dedication.