i fell in love with my best friend essay

Like a Rom-Com Protagonist, I Told My Best Friend I Was in Love With Him

Few love stories appeal to me so much as do those centered around best friends-turned-lovers. In my cynical mind, something about the level of intimacy, of authenticity, that exists in friendship makes love feel less hormonal/doomed when it blooms between them than when it does between strangers. Harry and Sally knew each other, really knew each other, before they fell in love. All the warts were on display and yet they still chose to be together. That's the kind of relationship origin story I have always craved, especially as an introvert, and it's become ever more appealing in the era of smoke-and-mirrors internet dating.

The stage was well set for me to get this, my version of a fairy tale, back in college. After my older boyfriend moved to Japan post-graduation, his friends adopted me into their circle. One in particular became my bestie, acting as a big brother figure of sorts as I finished college. We partied together, served as each other's wingmen as well as plus ones, supported each other through tough moments, and shared friends and family with one another until our lives were very much intertwined. It was lovely, but it wasn't love.

When I fell in love with my best friend, it hit me like a ton of bricks—suddenly.

Until, one day, it was. For me, at least. When I fell in love with my best friend, it hit me like a ton of bricks—suddenly. I absolutely pined for the guy, even though he was right next to me, and I wanted our non-sexual sleepovers to become R-rated, stat. When at last one did, I thought it was the beginning of something new. So I told him I loved him, with certainty and flourish, as one would see done in a movie. I was confident he felt it, too, so I had no trouble walking out onto a limb with heart in my hand.

Unfortunately, he did not. Feel it too, that is. In fact, he flat out said he did not love me, at least not romantically.

I was so heartbroken by this news (and, embarrassed) that I moved from Los Angeles to New York pretty much immediately. He then got a roommate, became good friends with her, and eventually told her he loved her . They got married. I got a drinking problem. I can still remember exactly where I was standing when our shared best girl friend called to tell me he was engaged, the way people recall every detail of the moment JFK was shot. It was that traumatic.

He was the only person I'd ever wanted to marry, and I was certain that meant he was the one I would marry.

A few years later, however, he was back on the market nursing his own broken heart. Our friendship rekindled and we once again became party partners and wingmen, even though I was hardcore faking romantic disinterest. He was the only person I'd ever wanted to marry, and I was certain that meant he was the one I would marry. The first wife had just been a thing he had to go through to get back to me.

So, one Thanksgiving of many spent with his family, I went out on a limb again. I held up a proverbial boombox at exactly the point in the third act of the movie where the pursuer gets the pursued. It was our time, at last!

My romantic declaration was met with something akin, in my mind, to horror, and deflected with a speech about how I deserved to be with someone who loved me the way I loved them. Humiliating reassurances that "he was out there" were lobbed in my direction.

I didn't understand. We were perfect for each other. We could be ourselves together. We'd shared a decade's worth of experiences both good and bad. Our social circles had blended into one. The wedding I'd planned in my mind for the last 10 years would've been magical, the natural conclusion everyone in our lives had been waiting for. Except, apparently, for him.

This time, our friendship ended. In fact, that was the last time I spoke to him until recently. On a hike, I ran into him, his new wife, and their new baby. If you're thinking, "Phew, this must be the point at which her dignity finally takes the wheel," you'd be right. And wrong. I no longer feel the way I once did, but every so often I think about the time I joked, before he'd ever been married, that I was certain I'd be his third wife. Fingers crossed? Just kidding—but only if you want me to be.

I wish this story had an ending more like a fairy tale," i.e., I got the guy. Or better yet, that at some point he'd realized his mistake and come back and gotten me. Still, I don't regret following my heart and going for it, despite a rejection some might consider embarrassing. After all, I say this to my friends often as it's necessary reminder in the too-cool-for-school Los Angeles singles scene: There's nothing embarrassing about loving someone. And while he wasn't the love of my life, I know he was right—my love is out there, and I do deserve him to feel the way about me that I feel about him.

There's nothing embarrassing about loving someone.

In the aftermath of all this heartbreak, I did decide to stop trying to turn a friendship into an epic love story and am now looking for a love story to turn into an epic friendship instead. Life isn't a movie, after all, and just because something would make for perfect plotting doesn't mean it's the real deal.

With that said, I will definitely be the first person to show up at my ex-bestie's wife's funeral in 50 years. Just kidding—but only if you want me to be.

Speaking of "meant to be," here's what happened when one writer chose dates based on zodiac compatibility alone . Plus, can hypnotism cure heartbreak? Another writer finds out . (Does it work on romantic delusions? Asking for a friend.)

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What to do if you think you're falling in love with a friend.

There are few people in the world who can understand you like a good friend. From the deep belly laughs to the times they've been there for you, the connection can feel undeniably special. But what if you look over at them one day and feel something unexpected—like, maybe you're falling in love with your friend?

Let's have "the talk" about how to navigate this precarious situation.

How to know if you're falling in love with a friend.

Falling in love with a friend is the stuff of rom-coms. You already seek them out in group situations and adore each other, but a healthy and thriving romantic relationship needs more than physical attraction and a few shared interests.

For you to know you're truly in love with them, it's important to figure out if it's simply platonic love or the beginnings of a beautiful love story. That includes thinking through all of the possibilities that can happen. After you've honestly interrogated your feelings, the reflections will leave you well equipped to figure out what to do next.

Licensed marriage and family therapist Farah Zerehi, LMFT , tells mbg the best way to process these feelings is confiding in someone you trust or journaling about it so you can gain a better perspective. You don't have to tell your friend about your feelings yet, but you do need to acknowledge emotionally what's happening.

To begin the process of examining your feelings, Zerehi and psychotherapist Madison McCullough, LCSW , share some telltale signs that the friendship is something more. Look out for many, if not all, of these signs to be present in your relationship:

You're sexually and physically attracted to them.
You're thinking about your friend a lot, even when you're not around them.
You always want to make yourself available in case they want to make plans.
You find a reason to bring your best friend up in conversations when they're not around.
You imagine what it would be like to kiss, cuddle, or date them.
You want to spend your free time with them more than other friends.
You're experiencing certain physiological symptoms like shakiness, sweating, dry mouth, or butterflies in your stomach.
You go the extra mile whenever they need anything, much more than you would for other friends.
You feel jealous of their romantic relationships.
When they're near you, you want to physically touch them or move closer.
You flirt and tease them constantly.
You analyze your communications and text messages with them.
You dress up during your hangouts.
You do couple-y things together.
You invite them on trips, preferably solo so it's just you two.
You pay a lot of attention to their movements when they're around you.

What to do when you're falling in love with a friend.

When you know you're in love with your friend, it's time to decide what you want to do about it. Here are some next steps if you're in this situation:

Don't deny how you feel.

Because you don't want to change things, there might be a part of you that wants to avoid, dismiss, or deny your growing feelings. But McCollough advises honesty is the best policy. "Just because you notice these feelings does not mean you need to act on them, but it is important to acknowledge internally that the feelings are there so that you can access the emotional support you need," she says.

Know there are high stakes.

There's a lot of measured reflection needed when you're in love with your friend because your connection is at stake. Handling the meaningful friendship with care is important so you can preserve your friendship in case they don't feel the same way. It's hard to consider the painful reality that your feelings could be unrequited, that they're not interested in a romantic relationship, or that you risk losing the friendship because the awkwardness is hard to recover from. But knowing there are high stakes will help you figure out the best way to respectfully have the conversation.

Be honest about what you're wanting from the connection.

Think about where you're currently at and why you're in love with them right now. Are you lonely and your friend is filling a void, which is why you're becoming interested in them? Are you fighting with your current romantic partner, which is making you consider someone else? Did they just get out of a relationship, and you want to finally tell them how you feel? Do you want to be with them to hook up or because you want a long-term relationship?

Separate whether you're in love with them or whether your friend is a mirror into an undiscovered and underlying issue you might be desiring from the connection. Parsing through the subtleties of the attraction along with your intentions and expectations will help you ground your feelings in realism.

Look for signs of whether they may feel the same way.

Since they're your friend, it's likely you'll know how they behave when they like someone. Before you have the conversation, become objectively curious about their interpersonal behavior. Pay attention to how they act around you in subtle and obvious ways. If they're into you , they'll reciprocate flirtiness and you'll see some nerves on their side. If they're not into you , you'll notice they're not interested in cultivating intimate, flirty moments, and they're likely not jealous about your love life. They may support and champion it instead.

One caveat: Sometimes it's hard to tell if they're interested in you because they're also afraid of ruining the friendship. "There is a spectrum of risk that initiating the conversation presents to the stability of the friendship moving forward," McCullough notes. "If there is a history of flirtation in the relationship, an acknowledgment of mutual attraction, or a gut feeling you have that this person might be falling in love with you, too, the risk is lower."

(Still not sure? Here's how to interpret mixed signals for this tricky situation.)

Consider whether it makes sense to simply let it go.

Let's say you've examined your feelings, and you've decided your friendship matters more than the possibility of something more. You love them, but perhaps you've realized they don't reciprocate your feelings, or they're not a viable romantic match long term. You don't want to risk what you already have for something that might not even work out later on.

With this route, it may be heartbreaking to move on, so give yourself support and compassion. "It may or may not be possible to stop having romantic feelings once they have developed," Zerehi says. "Some things that might be helpful to cool your feelings are to give the relationship a little bit of space, spend time with other friends or people you enjoy, or engage in hobbies and other activities that don't necessarily include the friend you have developed feelings for."

(We'll get to some more advice on how to release your feelings later in this article.)

If you want to let them know, prioritize the friendship as you do so.

If you've decided you can't hold back, it's still important to center your friendship when you're sharing your romantic feelings toward them. Instead of a bold romantic gesture, invite them to have a quiet moment with a simple and honest conversation about your feelings . Respect their feelings and how much time they might need to process your emotions, especially if it's a surprise. During the conversation, be sure to prioritize your friend by honoring their individual feelings and ability to choose, using both your actions and words.

"The only way to know for sure whether your friend is falling in love with you is to ask." McCullough acknowledges. "If open and honest communication is at the foundation of your friendship, there might be room to have a direct—and also playful—conversation about how you're both feeling."

If your friend feels the same way, great! This is the first of many talks where you can shape your next steps together.

Be prepared for some awkwardness if they don't feel the same way.

If they don't feel the same way and want to remain friends only, meet the conversation with as much lightness and understanding as possible. Privately, you can process your disappointment later. Your reaction may play a part in how things proceed next.

That said, it's inevitable things will be awkward for a while while you work on returning the friendship back to how it used to be—if that's what you're both wanting to do. Zerehi notes your friend could be uncomfortable by the change of your feelings toward them, so be prepared for anything to happen.

"Even if you develop romantic feelings for a friend, it's possible that your friend does not reciprocate the feelings you have for them," Zerehi says. To move forward, she says it depends on how uncomfortable they are by the change of your feelings and if you honestly feel like you are able to navigate a platonic relationship with someone you have feelings for. There's also the potential that you may not remain friends with each other after the disclosure, so tread lightly.

We've got a full guide on what to do when someone you like just wants to be friends .

If you're falling for a friend who is the same gender as you.

McCullough notes it's especially common between two queer folks to question whether something more than friendship might be developing. "It's possible that the intimacy and emotional safety this friendship provides created a space for this aspect of your sexuality to come to the surface. If your friend is the same gender as you and also queer, it might be that they have modeled a kind of queerness that resonates with you," she says.

If you're straight and falling for a friend who is the same gender as you, it may feel confusing, but rest assured: McCullough assures that bisexual feelings are normal and completely valid.

"If you fall in love with a friend who is the same gender as you, and you've identified as straight up to this point, it might be worth exploring whether there might be more fluidity in your sexual identity than you thought," she says.

If you're in a relationship.

If you or your friend is in a monogamous relationship with other people, McCullough points out the high level of risk because of the potential to implicate and hurt other people. In this case, it's essential to be open with your partner about your growing feelings.

"Falling in love with a friend while you're in a relationship could be an indication that you're not completely satisfied in your relationship," she says, though she adds, "If you love both your partner and your friend, you might be interested in learning more about alternative relationship styles, such as ethical nonmonogamy and polyamory."

Either way, know that it's common to get a crush even when you're in a serious relationship , and there are ways to handle the situation gracefully.

How to stop falling in love with a friend.

If you've told your friend you're in love with them, but the feelings aren't reciprocated , letting them know may bring you some relief from the what-ifs , which will help you move on. If you haven't told them but want to move on anyway, just know that letting go of your feelings won't happen overnight. So, be patient.

To help move it along, remember your worth and that you deserve to be with someone who will take the risk of being with you at all costs because they care about you that much. It could also help to look at your friend and the connection realistically too.

Maybe you two really get along but you don't have the same life goals, so a commitment doesn't work. Or they make you laugh, but you don't agree with their political ideologies. Keep those incompatibilities in your mind.

In the meantime, uphold clear and respectful boundaries and give each other space. This can look like limiting how often you spend time with each other, contacting them less, and restricting physical touch. After taking a break and you feel differently, you can rebuild the friendship to something clear and transparent.

For more, read through our full guide on how to stop liking someone .

What do you do if you fall in love with a friend?

Examine your feelings by talking to someone you trust about your attraction to your friend. For the sake of your friendship, figure out the motivations behind your emotions so you can choose whether to take a risk and tell them or to move on.

Is falling in love with a friend normal?

According to McCullough, falling in love with a friend is a really common experience–after all, studies have confirmed the " proximity principle ," aka the mere effect of being around each other often can be a powerful driver in attraction.

Love can be a mysterious thing, but psychology says when you hang out with someone enough, it breeds familiarity. And we like what we know. Plus, you already trust, love, and respect each other and have a strong emotional connection . So, it makes sense you might fall in love with them the more you spend time together.

The takeaway.

Falling in love can be one of the most turbulent, confusing experiences. But love requires courageous vulnerability and taking a chance on the things that really matter to you. If you want to know, open your heart and open the conversation to see what happens. Let them know how much you care about them and their friendship, and at the same time, you have these strong feelings and want to be honest with yourself and with them. You'll never know until you directly ask and make your affections known.

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I Fell in Love with My Best Friend: A Tale of Unexpected Romance

I never expected that I would fall in love with my best friend. It’s a situation that many people find themselves in, and it can be both exciting and confusing. When you have such a close bond with someone, it’s natural for feelings to develop over time. But what do you do when those feelings go beyond friendship?

For me, it was a rollercoaster of emotions. I had known my best friend for years, and we shared everything together – our dreams, our secrets, and our adventures. We were there for each other through thick and thin, but suddenly, something shifted. I started noticing their smile more often, their touch lingered a little longer, and every conversation seemed to hold an underlying current of tension.

It was terrifying to confront these new feelings head-on. What if it ruined our friendship? Would they feel the same way or see me differently? These questions plagued my mind as I tried to navigate this uncharted territory. Despite the uncertainty, I couldn’t deny the growing connection between us.

Falling in love with your best friend is undoubtedly complicated. It challenges the boundaries of your relationship and forces you to reevaluate everything you thought you knew about each other. But sometimes, taking that leap of faith is worth it because true love has a way of surpassing even the strongest friendships.

The Significance of Falling in Love with a Best Friend

The significance of falling in love with a best friend is a topic that holds both intrigue and complexity. It is a phenomenon that can have profound effects on our lives, challenging the traditional boundaries of friendship and romance. Let’s explore some key aspects that make this experience so significant:

Emotional Intimacy: When we fall in love with our best friend, the emotional connection becomes heightened as we share our deepest thoughts, fears, and dreams with someone who already knows us inside out. This level of intimacy goes beyond what we typically experience in regular friendships or even romantic relationships.
Trust and Understanding: The foundation of any strong relationship lies in trust and understanding. Falling in love with a best friend often means these qualities are already well-established, providing a solid base for the romantic aspect to flourish. The comfort of knowing each other deeply creates an environment where vulnerability can be embraced without fear of judgment.
Shared History: Best friends share countless memories and experiences together, creating a unique bond built on shared history. Falling in love with someone who has been there through thick and thin adds an extra layer of depth to the relationship. Inside jokes, nostalgic moments, and mutual growth become cherished milestones that further strengthen the connection.
Compatibility: Being best friends means having compatible personalities, interests, and values from the start. This compatibility acts as a solid framework for a successful romantic partnership as it minimizes conflicts over major life decisions or core beliefs. The alignment between two individuals who were once solely friends can enhance the overall compatibility within the relationship.
Supportive Environment: A friendship turned romantic provides an incredibly supportive environment where both partners feel safe to express themselves authentically without pretense or facade. In times of hardship or challenges faced individually or collectively as a couple, having your best friend by your side brings solace, encouragement, and unwavering support.
Sarah had always been my closest confidante, and when we realized our feelings had evolved into something deeper, it was as if the universe aligned. Our friendship provided a solid foundation for a loving relationship filled with trust, understanding, and unwavering support.
Mark and I were inseparable since childhood, so it came as no surprise when our love for each other blossomed. The significance of falling in love with my best friend is that we already knew each other’s strengths and weaknesses, making it easier to navigate through the joys and challenges of a romantic partnership.
Emma and I spent countless hours talking about our dreams and aspirations. Little did we know that those conversations would pave the way for us to fall in love. The shared history created an unbreakable bond that made our relationship feel like coming home every day.
Jason had always been my rock during difficult times. When we discovered our deep-rooted romantic feelings for each other, it felt like finding true happiness right under my nose. The significance of falling in love with your best friend is having someone who understands you on a profound level before romance even enters the picture.
Growing up together, Rachel was not just my best friend but also my partner in crime. As we transitioned from friendship to love, the significance became evident in how effortlessly we fit into each other’s lives. Our compatibility enabled us to build a lasting relationship based on mutual respect and admiration.
David had seen me at my worst yet loved me unconditionally throughout our years of friendship. This unwavering support formed the cornerstone of our romantic connection when we finally took the leap from friends to lovers. Falling in love with your best friend brings an unparalleled sense of security, knowing they’ll be there through thick and thin.

The significance of falling in love with a best friend lies in the unique blend of emotional intimacy, trust, shared history, compatibility, and supportive environment that this kind of relationship can offer. It transcends the conventional boundaries of friendship and romance, leading to a profound connection that can withstand the test of time.

Navigating the Transition from Friendship to Romance

When it comes to transitioning from friendship to romance, it can be a complex and delicate process. Here are a few insights on how to navigate this journey:

Recognize and assess your feelings: Before making any moves, take some time to understand your own emotions. Are you truly falling in love with your best friend, or is it just a fleeting infatuation? Reflecting on your feelings will help you gain clarity and make informed decisions.
Communicate openly and honestly: Once you’ve examined your own emotions, it’s essential to have an open and honest conversation with your friend. Expressing your feelings calmly and clearly can provide insight into whether they share similar sentiments or see you strictly as a friend. Remember that open communication is key in any relationship.
Evaluate the impact on the friendship: It’s important to consider how pursuing a romantic relationship may affect your existing friendship. Will it enhance what you already have or potentially jeopardize the bond? Be prepared for the possibility that things might not work out romantically, but strive to maintain the friendship regardless of the outcome.
Take things slow: Transitioning from friends to romantic partners requires patience and time. Rushing into a romantic relationship without giving yourself space could lead to complications down the line. Allow yourselves room to explore this new dynamic gradually while maintaining clear boundaries.
Seek support if needed: Navigating this transition can be emotionally challenging, so don’t hesitate to seek guidance from trusted friends or even professional counselors if necessary. They can provide valuable advice and perspective during this pivotal stage of your relationship.

Remember, every situation is unique, so trust yourself and follow what feels right for both parties involved. While there may be risks involved in pursuing a romance with a close friend, sometimes taking that leap of faith can lead to beautiful relationships that surpass anything imagined before.

Recognizing and Dealing with Mixed Feelings

Navigating the complexities of falling in love with your best friend can be a rollercoaster ride of emotions. It’s not uncommon to experience mixed feelings in such a situation, as you find yourself caught between the comfort of friendship and the allure of romantic attraction. In this section, we’ll explore some common signs that indicate you may be developing romantic feelings for your best friend and offer strategies for dealing with these conflicting emotions.

Heightened Awareness: One telltale sign that you’re experiencing mixed feelings is an increased awareness of your best friend’s presence. You may find yourself paying more attention to their words, actions, and physical appearance than usual. This heightened awareness often stems from a growing attraction that goes beyond platonic friendship.
Emotional Turmoil: Mixed feelings can result in emotional turmoil as you grapple with conflicting desires. On the one hand, you cherish the deep bond and companionship you share with your best friend; on the other hand, there’s an undeniable longing for something more intimate and romantic. This internal struggle can lead to confusion, frustration, and even guilt.
Jealousy: Another common indication of mixed feelings is experiencing jealousy when your best friend shows interest in someone else romantically. Seeing them pursue relationships outside of your own dynamic might trigger strong emotions within you, highlighting that there are deeper feelings at play.
Fear of Losing Friendship: The fear of jeopardizing a cherished friendship can also contribute to mixed emotions when falling in love with your best friend. You may worry about how confessing your true feelings could potentially change or even end the relationship altogether.

So how do you navigate these stormy waters without jeopardizing what matters most? Open communication is key! Honest conversations about your evolving emotions can help both parties gain clarity and understanding. Remember to approach these discussions with empathy and respect for each other’s perspectives.

Additionally, taking time for self-reflection is crucial. Ask yourself what you truly want and consider the potential consequences of pursuing a romantic relationship with your best friend. It’s essential to weigh the risks and rewards before making any decisions.

In conclusion, recognizing and dealing with mixed feelings when falling in love with your best friend is a delicate balancing act. By acknowledging your emotions, communicating openly, and reflecting on what truly matters to you, you can navigate this complex situation with grace and understanding.

Communication: The Key to a Successful Romantic Relationship

When it comes to matters of the heart, one thing is for certain – communication is absolutely vital in building and maintaining a successful romantic relationship. Without open and effective communication, even the strongest bonds can falter. So, let’s delve into why communication plays such a crucial role in fostering love and connection.

Building Trust: Communication acts as the foundation upon which trust is built. By openly expressing our thoughts, feelings, and desires, we create an environment of honesty and transparency with our partners. This allows us to establish a deep level of trust, knowing that we can rely on each other to share our innermost selves without fear of judgment or rejection.
Resolving Conflict: No relationship is immune to disagreements or conflicts; they are natural and inevitable. However, how we navigate these challenges often determines the strength of our bond. Effective communication enables us to express our concerns calmly and respectfully, listen actively to our partner’s perspective, and work together toward finding mutually beneficial resolutions.
Emotional Intimacy: Genuine emotional intimacy thrives when there is open communication between partners. Sharing our deepest emotions, fears, dreams, and vulnerabilities creates a profound sense of connection that strengthens the emotional bond between two individuals. It allows us to truly understand each other on a deeper level and fosters an environment where both partners feel seen, heard, and valued.
Shared Goals & Dreams: In any successful romantic relationship, it’s important for partners to have shared goals and dreams that they can work towards together. Through effective communication, couples can align their aspirations for the future by discussing their individual desires openly. This paves the way for mutual understanding and compromise as they strive towards creating a life filled with shared experiences and achievements.
Enhancing Intimacy: Communication also plays a significant role in enhancing physical intimacy within a romantic relationship. By openly discussing preferences, desires, and boundaries, partners can create an environment where both individuals feel comfortable expressing their needs and exploring new avenues of intimacy together. This level of communication fosters trust, respect, and a deeper connection between partners.

In summary, communication serves as the key to unlocking the full potential of a romantic relationship. It builds trust, resolves conflicts, nurtures emotional intimacy, aligns shared goals and dreams, and enhances physical intimacy. By prioritizing open and effective communication with our partners, we lay the groundwork for a strong and fulfilling love that stands the test of time.

Maintaining Boundaries and Preserving the Friendship

When you find yourself falling in love with your best friend, it can be a confusing and delicate situation to navigate. It’s important to prioritize preserving the friendship while also establishing clear boundaries. Here are a few examples of how you can maintain boundaries and ensure the longevity of your cherished friendship:

Open Communication: The foundation of any healthy relationship is communication, and this holds true for friendships as well. Sit down with your best friend and have an honest conversation about your feelings. Share your concerns, fears, and desires openly. By being transparent, you can both work together to establish boundaries that will protect the friendship.
Respect Each Other’s Feelings: It’s crucial to acknowledge that your best friend may not reciprocate your romantic feelings. Respect their emotions and allow them space to process their own thoughts and feelings without pressuring them into anything they’re not comfortable with. Acceptance is key to maintaining a strong bond.
Define What Friendship Means: Take some time to reflect on what friendship means to both of you individually and collectively. Discuss what aspects of the relationship are most important to preserve, such as trust, loyalty, or shared interests. By having a mutual understanding of what makes your bond special, you’ll be better equipped to navigate any challenges that arise.
Set Clear Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries is essential when transitioning from friends to potentially something more. This could involve refraining from physical affection or discussing topics related to romance until both parties feel ready for those conversations. Remember that these boundaries may evolve over time as your friendship evolves.
Seek Support if Needed: If navigating this transition becomes overwhelming or confusing for either of you, consider seeking support from a trusted third party, such as a counselor or therapist, who can provide guidance during this emotional journey.

By maintaining open communication, respecting each other’s feelings, defining what friendship means to both of you, setting clear boundaries, and seeking support if needed, you can navigate the complexities of falling in love with your best friend while preserving the cherished bond you share. Remember that every situation is unique, so it’s essential to approach it with understanding and empathy for one another.

Dealing with Potential Rejection or Unrequited Love

Navigating the delicate territory of falling in love with a best friend can be an emotional roller coaster. As the realization hits, you may find yourself grappling with the fear of potential rejection or unrequited love. Here are some ways to handle these challenging situations:

Communicate openly: Honesty is key when it comes to addressing your feelings for a best friend. Find a suitable time and place to have an open and sincere conversation about what’s been going on inside your heart. Expressing your emotions will not only provide clarity but also allow your friend to understand where you’re coming from.
Prepare for different outcomes: When confessing your feelings, it’s important to prepare yourself mentally for various responses. Your best friend might feel the same way, leading to a beautiful romantic relationship. On the other hand, they may not share those same romantic feelings, which could result in maintaining a close friendship while respecting each other’s boundaries.
Give yourself time and space: If your feelings aren’t reciprocated, it’s crucial to give yourself adequate time and space to heal emotionally. It can be challenging initially, but taking a step back from the friendship temporarily can help process and come to terms with any disappointment or hurt you may experience.
Seek support from others: Dealing with unrequited love or potential rejection can be overwhelming at times, so don’t hesitate to lean on friends or family members who can provide comfort and guidance during this difficult period. Sharing your thoughts and emotions with trusted individuals can offer valuable perspective and support.
Focus on self-care: Take this opportunity as a chance for personal growth by prioritizing self-care activities that bring you joy and fulfillment outside of this particular relationship dynamic. Engaging in hobbies, practicing mindfulness techniques such as meditation or journaling, exercising regularly, or seeking therapy are all great ways to invest in your own well-being.

Remember, every situation is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with potential rejection or unrequited love. Trust your instincts, be kind to yourself throughout the process, and remember that time has a way of healing wounds.

Seeking Support and Advice from Trusted Sources

When faced with the complex emotions of falling in love with a best friend, it’s crucial to seek support and advice from trusted sources. While you may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about how to navigate this situation, reaching out to others who can provide guidance can be immensely helpful. Here are a few examples of where you can find the support you need:

Close Friends: Turning to your other close friends for support and advice can be a comforting option. They know you well and may have insights into your relationship dynamics that could shed light on your feelings. Sharing your experience with them might also help alleviate some of the confusion or frustration you’re experiencing.
Family Members: Your family members, especially those who have known you and your best friend for a long time, might offer valuable perspectives on the situation. Whether it’s through heart-to-heart conversations or simply lending an empathetic ear, their unconditional love and understanding can provide solace during this emotional journey.
Therapist or Counselor: Seeking professional help is another avenue worth considering when grappling with complex emotions like falling in love with a best friend. A therapist or counselor can provide unbiased guidance and help you explore your feelings in a safe space without judgment.
Online Support Communities: The internet offers numerous online communities where individuals facing similar situations share their experiences and offer support to one another. From forums dedicated to relationships to social media groups focused on personal growth, these virtual spaces allow for connection, validation, and advice from people who have walked similar paths.
Self-Help Books or Resources: Sometimes, turning inward and exploring self-help books or resources can provide valuable insights into navigating complicated emotions like romantic feelings towards a close friend . These materials often offer practical tools, exercises, and anecdotes that may resonate with your own experiences.

Remember that seeking support doesn’t mean surrendering control over your own decisions; rather, it allows you to gain perspective, process your emotions, and make informed choices. By reaching out to trusted sources, you can gather different viewpoints and guidance that may ultimately help you navigate this delicate situation with clarity and compassion.

In conclusion, falling in love with your best friend can be a complex and emotional journey. It’s a situation that many people can relate to, as friendships often provide a strong foundation for deeper connections. Throughout this article, I have shared various examples and insights into this unique experience. Let’s recap some key points:

Emotional rollercoaster: Falling in love with your best friend can bring about a whirlwind of emotions . From the initial realization of feelings to the fear of potentially losing the friendship, it’s important to acknowledge and navigate these emotions openly and honestly.
Friendship as a foundation: The beauty of falling in love with your best friend lies in the solid foundation you’ve already built together. This deep connection forms the basis for trust, understanding, and shared experiences that can enhance a romantic relationship.
Risk versus reward: Pursuing a romantic relationship with your best friend comes with its own set of risks and potential rewards. While there is always uncertainty involved when transitioning from friends to partners, taking that leap of faith could lead to an incredibly fulfilling relationship.
Communication is key: Open and honest communication is crucial when navigating such delicate territory. Both parties should express their feelings, expectations, and concerns openly to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings.
Acceptance or moving on: Sometimes, despite our deepest desires, pursuing a romantic relationship with our best friend may not be feasible or reciprocated. In these cases, accepting reality gracefully while preserving the friendship becomes essential for both individuals’ emotional well-being.

Overall, falling in love with your best friend is undeniably complicated but also holds immense potential for happiness and fulfillment if approached thoughtfully and respectfully by both parties involved.

Remember that every situation is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Trust your instincts, communicate openly, and ultimately make choices that align with your values and personal growth.

So there you have it, the conclusion to our exploration of falling in love with your best friend. I hope this article has provided you with a better understanding and perspective on this intriguing phenomenon.

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8 No Nonsense Tips If You’re Falling In Love With Your Best Friend

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man and woman looking awkwardly at each other signifying falling in love with your best friend

Many of us have been there before – that weird moment where you realize you see your best friend as something more.

Maybe the attraction has been growing for a while, or maybe it’s hit you like a truck.

Either way, it can be really confusing and can put a lot of strain on the friendship.

Don’t panic! We’ve put together some advice on how to deal with these feelings and move forwards, whether that’s as a couple, as friends, or alone.

1. Give it time.

Remember that our feelings can come and go, and that the intensity of what we feel today might not be the same as how we feel tomorrow.

If you’re unsure exactly how you feel about your friend, try to give it some time. It’s probably bringing up a huge range of weird emotions for you, and you might feel a bit awkward around them at the moment, but try to wait it out.

Your feelings may have arisen due to specific circumstances – maybe you’re going through a breakup and that friend has been really supportive, maybe you’re projecting your feelings for an ex onto them, or perhaps you both got drunk and kissed.

What it is, you may feel the way you are for many reasons.

Don’t make any rash decisions based on how you’re feeling right now! Give it a little bit of time; keep hanging out with them as normal and see what happens.

If the feeling fades, it was maybe just a little crush! If not…

2. Talk about it.

Speak to someone you love and trust about how you’re feeling.

It can be really hard to keep all of this bottled up – you feel like you need to keep a secret from your best friend, which makes you feel guilty and ashamed, almost.

Letting it all out with someone else will help you process your feelings and establish what’s actually going on.

This is not an uncommon experience, so your loved one will hopefully have some great advice for you.

Knowing that this is totally normal and that you’ll get through it, can make dealing with the here-and-now a lot easier.

3. Gauge their feelings.

If you’ve fallen in love with your best friend and they don’t know, they might have feelings for you that you don’t know about.

While it’s important not to get your hopes up, consider the fact that this may not be one-sided.

While you’re spending time with them, see how they act around you. Has anything changed recently, have they stopped dating other people, do they look at you differently?

Maybe they’re also testing the waters and are unsure of what to do with their own feelings?

This can be a hard one to gauge, but it’s worth trying. You can see how they react if you get a bit flirty with them, or maybe if you’re more touchy-feely than normal.

Suggest a nice dinner some time – pick a date-worthy restaurant and see if you both change your behavior in this setting.

Sometimes we need to be in the right atmosphere to be able to address our feelings, and a candlelit, romantic meal can be the perfect place to let those feelings come to the surface!

See how they act – maybe they’re acting exactly the same as normal, or even joking around and being silly because it’s such weird territory for you. Maybe they seem a bit shyer, or they’re making a real effort to engage with you.

See how things pan out and trust your gut on this one – you might really, really want there to be something between you, but you’ll know for sure if there isn’t.

4. Get some perspective.

Dating other people should be something you do for yourself – it should never be about hurting another person.

In this situation, you could try meeting a few other prospective dates. This is absolutely not to try to make your best friend jealous, as that’s very unfair and manipulative behavior.

Instead, it’s about seeing if your feelings for your best friend are genuine or if you can feel those same things for someone on the 2nd date!

Sometimes, we think we’re falling in love with someone because of who they are. However, it might just be a projection of emotions onto someone stable and secure, someone we trust, someone who validates our need for attention and affection.

So you might not actually love your best friend; you might just love the idea of being with someone similar to them. Which is why meeting other people can help you identify how you really feel.

You might come away from a date really fancying them and wanting to see how things go, safe in the knowledge that your ‘feelings’ for your best friend weren’t what you thought.

Or, you might come away feeling sick at the thought of even kissing someone else when you’re so in love with your best friend.

Either way, you know how you really feel and you can start to move forward…

5. Tell them how you feel.

At some point, you may want to consider telling your best friend you’re in love with them.

It might feel incredibly daunting and scary, but there comes a time when it needs to be done.

Ease them in, rather than shouting “I love you” or planning some huge romantic gesture. Those things can be very sweet and they do have a time and a place (mainly, rom coms and Friends), but they can also be very intense!

Imagine how you’d want your best friend to tell you if the situation was reversed – probably somewhere private and quiet.

Just let them know that you think you’ve got feelings for them and that, while you don’t want to ruin the friendship, you want to know where you stand.

Never ever blame them or get angry if they don’t feel the same – you can process that rejection later, but it is not your friend’s fault if they don’t want the same thing as you. Stay calm when you speak and respect their feelings.

One option is that they ask for some time to process. Another is that they immediately tell you they don’t feel the same way. Of course, the ideal option is that they grab you for a hug and a big kiss.

6. Be patient.

If they’ve told you they need time, respect that. Don’t stage a run-in or confront them, and don’t put pressure on them and demand an answer within 24 hours.

Give them some space and let them come to you when they’re ready. Use this time apart to remind yourself that, however things work out, you want this person in your life.

Feeling rejected is so painful, but it will get easier, and you will get back to how things were before.

Equally, they may feel the same way as you, so try not to get too down during the waiting phase. If they come back and want to give things a go, amazing! If not…

7. Getting closure and moving on.

So, they made it clear they don’t feel the same way. Sure, this is horrible for you, but consider that they may also feel uncomfortable or unsure of how to act.

Deal with any ill feelings in private rather than lashing out at them.

Use this as the closure you need to move on. You’ve done all you can – you’ve been honest and you can’t force someone to have feelings for you, however tempting it may seem at the time.

Give each other some space for a while. You’ll need to deal with these feelings away from them, and to properly heal before you can go back to being friends again.

Remember that you love this person as a friend, as well as loving them, so you haven’t lost them in your life for good.

When you start seeing each other again, maybe make some ground rules – you could ask them not to talk about their dates in front of you, at least at first, or agree that you hang out in groups to start with.

They’re your friend and they’ll want to help as much as they can and be very keen for things to go back to normal, so be open about what you need and you’ll be well on the way to moving on and being best friends again.

8. Friends are still a prize.

Many people get caught up in the idea of the ‘friendzone’ and can wallow in rejection and shame, thus damaging that friendship.

Remember that there is no such thing as a friendzone! It’s just something made up by people who feel very bitter and only see people’s worth if they can be with them romantically.

There is still so much worth to having ‘just’ a friend – it’s not ‘relationship or nothing,’ and you loved this person as a friend before you developed feelings for them, anyway.

Try not to let any of this get in the way of your friendship if things don’t go the way you want them to.

Follow our advice, give yourself all the space you need, and you’ll soon be back to being best friends again.

About The Author

i fell in love with my best friend essay

Lucy is a travel and wellness writer currently based in Gili Air, a tiny Indonesian island. After over a year of traveling, she’s settled in paradise and spends her days wandering around barefoot, practicing yoga and exploring new ways to work on her wellbeing.

Falling In Love with Your Best Friend - What to Do?

What to know about falling in love, what causes someone to fall in love.

"Falling in love" is what drives the romances we read about or watch in our favorite shows and movies. But what does it really mean to fall in love with someone? Falling in love happens when you have strong feelings of admiration and attraction to someone you care about. It is easy, when you are new to a relationship , or new to these feelings, to see the best about a person easily. You probably prioritize the time you spend together, and share lots of time, gifts, and affection with them. Falling in love is often a joy, and it can be part of what points you toward the person that's right for you. But it's important not to rely on strong feelings of attachment alone when making decisions about dating and marriage. You want to be sure, if you feel like you're falling in love with someone, that you share compatible beliefs about life, about priorities, and about spiritual things. You want to commit to someone only if they are respectful of you, your needs, and your boundaries. And if you feel "out of love", it may not be a sign of the end of your relationship. Depending on your reasons for falling out of love, you may be able to rekindle warm feelings by getting support and talking through your relationship.

Friendships are one of life's greatest joys. Finding someone we can share our heart with -- someone who understands and accepts us just the way we are is priceless. When we can have a deep friendship with someone from the opposite sex, it is a tremendous gift. There is so much to learn and respect about both genders. But at times these opposite-sex friendships can also be a great challenge. One of the most exciting, but frightening, barriers a friendship faces is when one person falls in love with their best friend of the opposite sex. The feelings are can be intense, and the fear of revealing them can be paralyzing.

Is dating your best friend worth the risk?

You’ve probably heard the popular saying: “Marry your best friend.” Why then is it so darn stressful to figure out whether or not to date your best friend? On one hand, the prospect of a romantic relationship with someone you already share a deep bond with can seem like a dream come true. But… What if it doesn’t work out? It’s an idea with its fair share of risks and challenges that should be carefully considered.

Dating your best friend could mean that you’d be starting your romantic relationship ahead of the game, with a foundation of trust and understanding that already exists. You know each other's quirks, preferences, and values, which can lead to a pretty seamless transition from bestie to BF or GF. That kind of familiarity can create a strong emotional connection, since you're not starting from scratch in getting to know each other.

What’s the catch? The fear of ruining a cherished friendship. You won’t just lose a partner if things go wrong, you might lose or irreparably damage the friendship. Two heartbreaks in one go.

Dating a friend could also change the dynamics in your social circle. It could be tons of fun for your friend group when you get together, but if you break up, mutual friends might feel awkward or forced to pick sides. Instead of losing one friend in the breakup, it’s possible that you could lose several, or that your friend group will never feel quite the same way.

All that said, there’s a difference between being cautious and wise about such a big decision, and letting your fear make your choices for you. Consider this question: what if it does work out? Does the potential of finding a deeper love with a person you already know and trust outweigh the potential for heartbreak? Will you be okay with your decision, years from now, if you let fear keep you from taking a chance on something that could be beautiful? Check out this reminder to be brave from Joshua 1:9.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

We’re not meant to let fear dictate our decisions. Dating your best friend can be worth the risk if your bond is strong and you’re both committed to making it work. The transition from friendship to romance requires careful consideration and open communication. Of course there are potential pitfalls, but the reward of finding love with someone who knows you deeply can be a beautiful and fulfilling experience.

The Gut-Wrenching Challenges to Secretly Loving Your Best Friend

Laura reveals the gut-wrenching challenges she's facing being secretly in love with her best guy friend: It's been really hard because sometimes it seems like he likes me and sometimes it seems very obvious that we're just friends. It's torn my heart up on several occasions. I'm currently trying to get over him, because it's just too hard to love him from a distance. I don't want to lose our friendship as we've been through a lot together in the years we've known each other, but I'd rather save my heart for someone who I know is going to give me his heart fully in return.

It's okay to have feelings of love because of the trust you share with your best friend, but that doesn't necessarily mean you are in love. But it does mean you have the ingredients to develop awesome love which could turn into a great marriage. Someone once said great friends make great lovers. The longer you're friends, the more stable your relationship is going to be.

A lot of good friends can do things that romantic partners cannot. Friends usually say what they need to say to each other without fear, and good friends are more likely to be spontaneous with their activities.

Two Warnings if You Think You Are In Love With Your Best Friend

When you start to feel you desire more than just a casual friendship with your best friend and you're not sure what to do next, let me offer you some advice that could strengthen both your relationship and your love for each other. First, don't rush into a romantic relationship with your best friend. Many times, people confuse love with that other kind of caring love you feel for all of your other friends.

Second, don't spill your guts right away. You might feel like you have to share all your thoughts and feelings with the other person as soon as you start to feel something. That's usually a mistake.

Javier agrees: This girl and I have known each other for nearly seven years and we have been close friends for about three. Eventually, we did start liking each other and we went out for a month and a few weeks. After that relationship ended, I didn't feel very hurt or sad. It was odd. I found myself being freer and I got to thinking: Don't rush into [a romantic] relationship with your best friend...many times people confuse love with that other kind of caring love you feel for all of your [other] friends.

Find another good friend you can trust—someone with whom you can verbalize your deep emotions about your best friend with whom you are in love. This other friend will help you continue to show the self-control of letting a good friendship grow into an even deeper friendship. Hold your emotions and get them out in a healthy way with another friend. Why chance ruining a good thing, at least for now?

Friendship IS the start of a Real Romance

On the other hand, after you've been a good friend with him/her for some time, you should be able to read their moods. You should be able to get some sense as to whether or not the friendship has developed into more of a romance for him/her, as well as yourself. If you see these signs, you might want to begin to talk about them with the good friend you so deeply love. After all, good friends should be able to talk about nearly anything.

I think Jane has a great perspective: The only time I would recommend someone reveal their feelings is if they are SURE it is mutual. A really honest friendship will often develop into love without any conscious effort. And if he doesn't love you, isn't having a REAL, HONEST, CARING guy friend better than a boyfriend who might leave you at any moment? Friends are people who you don't have to constantly worry about leaving you for no reason. And if he cares for you and stands up for you, he already loves you in a way already.

First and foremost, good friends should know how much each person values the other. We make the mistake of demanding that many of our relationships be all or nothing romantically. Whether the person you are in love with ends up marrying you or not, you have had the joy of experiencing real love.

Real love is rich, pure, and self-sacrificing. To experience that kind of love with anyone is a priceless gift.

This is how the Bible describes true love: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

Isn't that awesome? This verse also describes how God loves YOU ! Trust God as He shows you whether your best friend will become your life's partner. You may want to pray to God for guidance in this relationship and even have others pray for you.

Still wondering if it's really love or friendship? Read: How to Know if it's Really Love.

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240 comments on “falling in love with your best friend - what to do”.

I’ve been in this situation before but if the guy is married engaged or in a relationship it’s best to end the friendship then having to do group hang outs all the time if you love someone that’s not really going to be fun when this happened I gave him subtle hints that if things continued the way they were going that I would no longer be his friend and then finally I had no choice but to end the friendship with him he wasn’t really a good friend even he made no effort any plans that were made he canceled last minute and I knew why he did that it’s not okay for anyone to do unless there’s an emergency now the friends I’ve got act like it is an emergency when I get stomach pain because they know what that means oh yeah they know what’s coming when my stomach hurts they are all good friends

I'm in love with my bestfriend, but he has a girlfriend.... I'm just so worried that he doesn't feel the same...

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Her Story: Falling in Love with your Best Friend

Falling in love with your best friend

I couldn’t tell you the exact moment I fell in love with him. I was in denial for months, until one day he told me he was seeing someone and I felt like I had ran into a brick wall.

He was one of the first people I met at University. I remember thinking how funny and attractive he was, but we seemed to click more as friends. We started hanging out in the same group, then began spending time together one on one. He would pop round for a coffee and we’d just talk about our days, it was a casual friendship to begin with. However as the year went on, we started to share more, and soon he was the first person I turned to for advice and vice versa. When we said goodbye for Christmas, the thought of not seeing him for a month affected me more than I thought it would. Out of all my friends, I found saying goodbye to him the hardest.

By Christmas I knew I was in love with him, but denied it until the beginning of summer when we said goodbye again and I cried. Even though we spoke every day, I still missed him. I told my friend from home all about him, and although I was aware that when I spoke about him I did gush a little, I thought that was because I couldn’t believe someone as amazing as him was my best friend. When she declared ‘you’re in love with him’, I laughed her remarks away, but after that I couldn’t help but feel like she was right.

After that, I went into denial. I knew I was in love with him, but he was my best friend and our friendship was more important than my feelings. I’m not proud of how I coped during this time because I slept around, thinking that would somehow make me realise it wasn’t true. We came back to University and for the first couple of weeks I was so elated to be back with him. To see him happy because he had started to see this girl he really liked, that I didn’t even realise how much I was hurting.

After a couple of days crying and feeling confused I decided to tell him the truth. It’s the most terrifying thing I’ve ever done. We had a massive argument and he denied everything I said. When he was finally convinced that it was real, he said he needed time to think about things.

Now we’re back to being best friends. He said he was sorry for how he acted, and our friendships is one of the most important things to him. Even though I know it’s going to be hard, and I’ll probably fall in love with him even more; I just want him to be happy. That to me is love- putting another person’s feelings before your own.

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How To Write a My Best Friend Essay

Definition: What Is a My Best Friend Essay?

Write about what you know is sage advice often given to fledgling writers. And what do many of our young students know more about than their trusty sidekick, who is a constant presence through thick and thin?

A My Best Friend Essay is precisely what it sounds like; an essay the student writes that is focused on their closest pal’s endearing attributes (and otherwise).

However, the My Best Friend Essay is more than just a chance for students to wax lyrical about their BFFs. It is an authentic opportunity for students to hone their composition skills and exercise their creative flair.

All this while talking about one of their best mate – not bad!

STRUCTURING a My Best Friend Essay

This is an essay. It says so right there in the title! Just how complex the structure of a student’s essay is will depend on essential factors such as age and ability. However, the 5-paragraph essay structure is a perfect framework for this type of composition.

One of the most beautiful aspects of the 5-paragraph essay is that it is easily modified to differentiate between lower or higher ability students by simply adjusting the number of paragraphs. The essay will still contain the same essential elements of an introduction, a body, and a conclusion, regardless of how long it is.

The 5-paragraph (or hamburger) essay is a craft in itself and much too broad a topic to go into at length. Check out our complete guide here if you want more detail on this handy essay template.

Briefly though, in essence, the 5-paragraph essay comprises three parts:

The Introduction : The opening paragraph will orient the reader to the topic of the essay, in this case, by introducing the show’s star, the best friend .
The Body : In the traditional 5-paragraph essay, this makes up three of the five paragraphs. In this type of essay, the student will use these paragraphs to flesh out the main reasons they value their friend, or (at a more advanced level) they will tell a story about them that illustrates why they are the student’s best friend.
The Conclusion : In the conclusion, the student can sum up why their friend holds the hallowed title of ‘best’. Or, at a higher level, the student can use the final paragraph of their essay to look forward to the future of their relationship with their best friend.

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My Best Friend Essay Story

While we are teaching a short essay on my best friend’, it can also be approached from another angle, i.e., as a nonfiction story.

While the clearcut essay format may be eminently suitable for younger students, you may wish to revisit this genre with older students, this time emphasising storytelling.

In this creative nonfiction approach, students can merge the essay format with storytelling elements such as character, setting, central conflict, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

Constructing their best friend composition in this manner allows students to work on structuring a nonfiction text. Simultaneously, it offers them a chance to develop their creative flair.

My Best Friend in 10 Lines

Another approach particularly well-suited to younger students is the my best friend essay 10 lines format.

This helps younger students get writing by giving them a clear target to aim for, which makes planning easy.

However, you can still introduce the three elements of the 5-paragraph essay here. As students list the points they want to make in their 10 lines, they can be encouraged to group these into introduction, body, and conclusion sections.

For example, a plan might look like this:

A ‘My Best Friend in 10 Lines’ Plan

Introduction

Line 1: My friend’s name.

Line 2: What she looks like.

Line 3: Where she is from/her family.

Line 4: What friendship means to me.

Line 5: How we met.

Line 6: The kindest thing she has ever done.

Line 7: The funniest thing she has ever done.

Line 8: My absolute favorite thing about her.

Line 9: Restate why she is my best friend.

Line 10: How I see our future together.

To complete their 10-line ode to their friend, the student simply builds proper sentences around each of these (or similar) ideas.

More on Planning a My Best Friend Composition

As we can see in the sample plan above, the planning process is relatively straightforward when the 5-paragraph essay structure serves as a framework. However, we may want to take things up a notch for students of a higher ability.

A good, old-fashioned brainstorming session is an excellent starting point for the student. They can list their favorite memories and their friend’s best features.

While younger students may inevitably write something of a hagiography (a biography of a saint!), older students may want to present a more realistic portrait of their ever-present amigo.

Likewise, if the student is undertaking their composition in a narrative nonfiction form, they’ll need to map out the narrative arc of their story at the planning stage.

As with any story, the conflict will serve as the engine of the narrative. However, this conflict does not have to take the form of a problem between the writer and the best friend. After all, this text is more likely to be something of a love letter than a letter of complaint. Instead, the conflict is more likely to take the form of a problem or a challenge faced by the writer and their pal together.

Whether or not the student’s text will take a full-blown story form, true-to-life anecdotes will bring life to the student’s writing. The planning process is the perfect time to dump these onto paper, even if they don’t all make it into the final draft.

How to Start a MY Best Friend Essay

As with most text types, fiction or nonfiction, the writer will want to grab the reader’s attention from the outset. An effective way of doing this is by using a hook.

How to Hook The Reader

The student writer has many methods available to grasp the reader’s attention. While some of these will only be suitable for more advanced students, most can be adapted with a bit of effort for our younger writers.

Start in the Middle of the Action

Technically known as, In Medias Res , this technique involves opening the story in the middle of a moment of dramatic tension with the exposition filled in later. This type of wizardry is probably best reserved for the more skilled student writer.

Make a Bold Promise at the Outset

The promise of a big payoff can undoubtedly catch a reader’s eye and draw them in, but the student-writer must follow through later in the text. For less experienced students, you may want to offer a writing prompt to help out here. For example,

My best friend Jack is truly one of a kind, but just how special he is wasn’t clear to me until the day a fire broke out in our school.

Students can quickly adapt such prompts by changing the event mentioned to their own circumstances.

Create a Sense of Intimacy

Another way to grasp the reader’s interest is to create a sense of intimacy right from the start. This can be achieved by addressing the reader directly in a conversational tone. Students should use informal language and approach writing their text as if they were speaking to a close friend – this is perfect for this writing style.

Open with an Anecdote

Another way to create interest (and a sense of intimacy) is to open up with an interesting anecdote about the friend. Students can select an interesting or humorous story to use as a carrot to entice the reader in. The student could substitute an exciting or amusing fact in shorter pieces for a full-blown anecdote.

Begin with a Quotation

Quotes are a great way to garner attention. There are many online repositories of inspirational quotes on every topic under the sun where students can find a golden nugget of friendship-based wisdom to open their masterpieces. They must simply type in keywords such as ‘famous’, ‘quotes’, and ‘friendship’ to uncover a smorgasbord of well-articulated wisdom for students to choose from. However, students should ensure the sentiment expressed in their selected quote ties into the type of friendship described in their work.

Working the Body

As we stated earlier in this article, the 5-paragraph essay structure, or the narrative writing arc, lays out a suitable template for the student-writer to work their way through the body of their text. However, it’s worth pointing out five areas where a little attention can significantly impact.

Get Specific

The devil’s in the details. The more specific the student is in their writing, the more effectively they will communicate with the reader.

Encourage students to be as precise as possible in their descriptions. A thesaurus is an excellent tool to help students find just the right word for the job.

Vary Sentence Length

Often, emergent writers rely on the same couple of simple sentence structures in their writing. This soon makes the writing monotonous for the reader; if they continue to read, it is only with effort that they will finish the student’s work.

Variety is not only the spice of life but also the spice of good writing. Encourage students to vary their sentence structures and alternate between long and short sentences to diversify the rhythm of their writing and evoke interest on the reader’s part.

Use Dialogue

Weaving dialogue into a my best friend essay text is a great way to bring colour and variety to a student’s writing. It also allows the student to practice punctuating dialogue – an essential skill!

Students will need to learn to listen carefully if they are to be able to write how people actually speak. Encouraging them to read their dialogue aloud is an effective way to check if it rings true.

Incorporate Literary Devices

Though this is undoubtedly a nonfiction text, it has firm roots in creative writing too. Students should incorporate some of the literary techniques and devices that we’d more commonly associate with poetry and fiction writing to add colour, creativity, and imagination to their writing.

For example, for younger students, physical descriptions of their BFF provide the perfect opportunity to introduce similes and hyperbole. Don’t be afraid to get comical here; writing should be fun, after all.

Does their friend have a big nose? How big? As big as an elephant’s trunk, perhaps?

Just make sure students avoid being too mean or poking fun at areas too sensitive for their friends.

It is easy to differentiate different abilities by challenging stronger students to use more complex literary devices in their work. Zoomorphism anyone?

Evoke the Five Senses

Emergent writers often display a bias towards only using the sense of sight in their descriptions. To bring their writing up a notch, encourage your students to employ all five senses in their writing.

By evoking the sense of hearing, smell, taste, and touch in their work, students will help their writing to come alive in the reader’s imagination.

WRAPPING THINGS Up

In a regular 5-paragraph essay, the concluding paragraph is usually the time to summarize the main arguments and drive home the thesis statement one more time. Obviously, things are a little bit different in a “my best friend essay.”

Of course, students can take the opportunity to revisit and restate the main reasons why their best friend holds the best-friend-championship belt. Still, there is a more artistic way to use their composition’s final paragraph.

Ask students to think about their friendship and where they see it in five, ten, twenty, or even forty years.

Undoubtedly, for younger students, in particular, this may be a bit of a challenge, but it can be a fun thought experiment too. Students can pose themselves questions to help, such as:

Will we be neighbours?
Will we work together?
Will our children go to school together? Etc.

Taking a tentative step into the possibilities of the future can make for an impactful ending.

MY BEST FRIEND ESSAY EXAMPLE

My Best Friend Essay | Slide2 | How To Write a My Best Friend Essay | literacyideas.com

So that should get you well on your way to creating an excellent my best friend essay that will not only get you some great grades but also score you some brownie points.

25 Fun Daily Writing Tasks

Quick Write and JOURNAL Activities for ALL TEXT TYPES in DIGITAL & PDF PRINT to engage RELUCTANT WRITERS .

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ( 18 reviews )

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My Best Friend Essay in English | 100, 150, 200, 300, 500 Words

My Best Friend Essay in English: Best friend is one of the most beautiful gifts in life. In this article, you are going to learn how to write an essay on my best friend in English. We’ve provided 5 essays here (100, 150, 200, 300, and 500 words). All the essays will be helpful for students of classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12. So, let’s begin.

Table of Contents

My Best Friend Essay: 100 Words

I have many friends in school. But Akash is my best friend. We read in the same class and same section. He is polite and well-mannered. He is an ideal student. He is very smart and intelligent. He always obeys his parents and teachers. He wants to become an engineer. His favourite game is cricket. He is the captain of our school team.

Akash helps me to become a better person. We share our feelings, emotions, and happiness with each other. We study and play together. I want him to be successful in life. We hope our friendship will last forever.

Essay on My Best Friend: 150 Words

The world looks dark without a true Friend. I am fortunate that I have a best friend. Her name is Riya. We are friends since childhood. Riya is my class fellow. She is a soft-spoken girl. She is tall and good-looking. She is sincere and attentive in her studies. She belongs to a middle-class family.

Riya is a disciplined and obedient girl. Her hobbies are drawing, singing, and dancing. Everyone admires her because of her good behavior. Her aim in life is to be a doctor. Riya and I study and play together. We share our secrets, happiness, and sadness with each other. Whenever I face any problem, she helps me to get rid of the problem by providing the best solutions. I feel really lucky to have her as my best friend. May God give everyone a friend like Riya.

Essay About Best Friend: 200 Words

Man is a gregarious animal. He can not live alone. He wants to talk, love, and meet his fellow man, so he wants to have a friend. A friend is a person whom one loves, likes, talks and often meets, This brings happiness to a man’s life. A friendless man is never happy. He leads a sad life.

It is difficult to get a good friend. It is truly said that “Words are easy, like the wind; Faithful friends are hard to find.” My friend Rajesh is a faithful friend. Rajesh is my classmate and a close friend of mine. He belongs to a rich family. His father is a popular doctor. Mahesh is a simple and handsome boy. He is always smiling.

Rajesh has many qualities. He is a laborious boy. He is always serious for study. He is attentive in class and a topper in class examinations. He is practical and wears clean and neat dress. He is kind and helpful to other students. He is good at Mathematics. So, whenever I find difficulties in my Mathematics homework he helps me out. He is never proud. He takes keen interest in school activities, games, and sports. He takes an active part in debates.

Rajesh is a friend who guides me on the right path in life. I want him to be with me in every aspect of my life.

Essay on Best Friend: 300 Words

A true friend is a precious thing. Without a friend, life is dull and boring. I am really lucky to have a true friend. There are 5-6 friends of mine. But Rahul is my real friend. He is a genuine friend. Rahul is my best friend. We are made for each other.

I am proud of Rahul, and so is Rahul of me. We cannot live even for a single day without seeing each other. He has been my class fellow since my early childhood. Our friendship is natural and so everlasting. He comes from a respectable family. His mother is a religious lady and a housewife. Rahul is the only child of his parents. They love Rahul more than their own life. My parents also love him as dearly as they love me.

Rahul’s father is the Principal of a degree college. He is very learned and knowledgeable. And so, Rahul has inherited good intelligence and wisdom. He is brilliant in his studies. Science subjects are his favourite.

He helps me in these subjects. I am very good in English, and help him in this subject. There is a healthy competition between us. But are never envious of each other’s achievements.

Rahul wants to become a big and successful engineer. I want to be a lecturer. Rahul is a very good story-teller and singer. But he likes my jokes and anecdotes the best. We have a common hobby of collecting stamps. We both have a very good collection of stamps. We exchange stamps and information on the subject.

Rahul’s nature is sweet. He is very lovable. He often visits our house and in return, I also pay him visits. I am really lucky to have him as my friend. We together share our joys and sorrows. I have learnt much from him.

Also Read: My Best Friend 10 Lines in English

My Best Friend Essay: 500 Words

Introduction.

‘A man is known by the company he keeps’, Says a proverb. Hence one needs to be very careful in selecting friends. As Shakespeare has pointed out in his play ‘As You Like It’, ‘Most friendship is feigning, most loving mere folly’. Fair-weather friends are plenty; true and reliable friends are few and far between.

My Best Friend

I have many friends in my school , but most of them are only so-called friends. They are not dependable. Out of them, only Arvind is my true and sincere friend. He is my best friend. I am, indeed, proud of his friendship.

Arvind is the only son of a district court judge. Even then he is very humble and modest. His financial position is sound and enviable. Yet prosperity has not turned him proud and rude. He is not puffed with pride.

His Qualities

Arvind has all the fine qualities of head and heart. He is tall, healthy, and handsome. He is affectionate, kind, sociable, and extremely helpful. He is a good sportsman on the playground and an inviable scholar in the classroom. All praise, honour, and admiration sit lightly on him. He is not swollen-headed. He is all the more modest and polite because of them.

He is a hard-working boy. He is kind and compassionate. His heart melts at the sight of poverty, sickness and human suffering of any kind. In order to serve the suffering humanity selflessly, he has decided to become a doctor and set up his medical practice in some rural Adivasi area. He often says that the selfless service of the poor is the true service of God.

Our Friendship

I am so proud that I have such an ideal friend like Arvind. Because of his company and rare friendship, my outlook, attitude, and behaviour have been positively influenced. His friendship has given a new, healthy dimension to my life and I, now, look forward to a happy and bright future.

Arvind is indeed, the architect of my life and the moulder of my destiny in the right direction. He is my friend, guide, and philosopher. I envy myself for having such an ideal friend.

Read More: 1. Wonder of Science Essay 2. My Favourite Season Essay 3. Essay on Newspaper

Apj abdul kalam essay in english | 100, 200, 300, 500 words, blood donation essay in english | 150, 200, 300 words, my mother essay in english 10 lines [5 sets], essay on mother teresa in english for students [300 words], 1 thought on “my best friend essay in english | 100, 150, 200, 300, 500 words”.

A round of applause for your post.Really looking forward to read more. Much obliged.

What To Do When You’re Falling In Love With A Friend

If you feel like you're falling in love with a close friend and aren't sure how to handle the situation, you're not alone. These types of romantic relationships and situations have inspired countless movies and books, and it's something that many people experience.

Evaluate your feelings

Different identities and sexualities all around the world experience love and attraction in many ways , so this will likely be a personal and internal process.

Taking time to consider your feelings before you act on them may help you find the right action without complicating things. For example, it's possible to mistake your love for a close friend for romantic love. You may just have a number of common interests or similar personalities. However, close friends can ( and often do ) fall in love because it's sometimes human nature to fall in love with someone close to you.

Take time to consider your friend's feelings

If you are romantically in love with your best friend and believe these feelings will last, you may also want to consider the answer to a question such as " Does my guy friend like me too?" For example, do they already have their own love life? are they in a happy, long-term relationship? If so, you may want to tread lightly. They might not feel the same way, or a relationship might not be possible. Or, have you seen the telltale signs that indicate they have entertained the thought of you two dating? If so, they might be interested in changing the nature of your relationship.

Write it down

Regardless of what you think now, writing about your thoughts and feelings each day for at least a couple of weeks might help you sort them out. Journaling can be a helpful tool for putting emotions into words and reflecting on them. And since a journal is typically personal, it's usually easier to record every thought, attitude, intention, expectation, and feeling you've experienced confidently.

It might help to set a time to journal about your feelings each day, or you might go the extra mile and choose to write them down the moment they come up. You can write whatever comes to mind.

Journal prompt ideas for working through feelings of falling in love with a friend

How you feel
What you are afraid of losing
How you've felt in the past
What hurts you or makes you afraid
What you wonder will happen or what you hope happens
If you've felt this way before

Re-read what you have written at a later time

Then, after a few weeks, you can read what you've recorded from day one to see if it helps you better understand your emotions. This may illuminate additional perspectives that help you feel more confident about whether you want to act on these feelings.

Make a decision

After you've taken a break to analyze your feelings, it's likely time to decide what to do. Do you want to talk to your friend about how you feel or ask them if they've ever considered being your partner? Or do you want to keep your emotions to yourself for the time being?

It may be helpful to remember that they are your best friend who cares about you and that many friendships can withstand ups and downs. However, there's no way to control someone else's thoughts and feelings, and you can't predetermine how the interaction will go. It's possible that, by doing this, you may risk losing the friendship.

Examples of potential outcomes if you tell your friend how you feel

Your friend feels the same way, and you have a successful romantic relationship
Your friend feels the same way, but the romantic relationship doesn't work out
Your friend does not feel the same way, but your friendship remains strong
Your friend does not feel the same way, and your friendship moving forward will be different

After considering your options and potential outcomes, your decision might be more manageable. Once you think you know what you'd like to do, revisiting the journaling phase may help ensure you make the right choice.

Seek outside input

Sometimes, talking about your feelings and decisions with someone who isn't your best friend can help you find the right course of action. For example, you might have another close friend whose wisdom you can rely on. Or you might prefer an unbiased outside party. While it may seem helpful to go to a relationship coach, you will likely have a better experience with a therapist or counselor.

Navigating feelings with a professional

Online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy , and it can help you learn to manage your emotions and responses to situations with methods like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy). In addition, you'll have connections to a range of licensed professionals. Your therapist can help you explore your current friendship, feelings, and other mental health concerns (e.g., depression) that make your situation more challenging.

Act on your choice

Once you've spent time considering your emotions and decided what to do (regardless of how long it took), it'll likely be time to act on it. While there may be other options, this will likely involve either being honest with your friend or keeping your feelings to yourself.

Deciding to remain friends

If you've chosen to keep your feelings to yourself, it might help to implement self-care strategies or spend time with other friends for a while. And if you feel uncertain about this decision, know that you can always revisit this process if you feel the need.

Expressing your feelings

Or, if you've chosen to tell your friend about your feelings, you can hope for a positive response and choose a time to discuss the situation. You may choose to discuss these feelings through text messages or to have a conversation in person. But it's usually helpful to remain aware that your friend might react in a way you haven't foreseen, and all you can control are your own actions. It’s also important to respect your friend’s decision, no matter what they choose.

Creating space for the benefit of your mental health

You may also be putting strain on your own mental health by staying in a situation involving unrequited love . If you believe you will be unable to accept their decision or you will feel jealous when you see this friend with a romantic partner, you may want to choose to hang out with other people for a while.

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"I really enjoyed my sessions with Dr. Anstadt. He helped me see how one issue was affecting multiple aspects of my life. He has greatly improve my relationships with the people I'm closest to and even the way I approach work. I have seen a huge difference in my relationships already, and I have several tools to help me manage the issues I started seeking therapy for. I cannot express how thankful I am to Dr. I Anstadt!"

At BetterHelp , we'll match you with a therapist suited to your needs and preferences, and you can schedule appointments via video, phone, or in-app messaging. In addition, you can message your therapist at any time, and they'll respond as soon as possible.

Falling in love with a friend: What do I do if I fall in love with my friend?

Navigating romantic feelings for a best friend requires thoughtful consideration and careful communication. Reflect on the potential impact on your friendship and be prepared for both positive and challenging outcomes. Openly discuss your emotions with your friend, but also be prepared to respect their response and decisions, as they may need time to process their feelings as well.

However, it's important to approach the situation with sensitivity and respect for your friend's feelings as well. Communication is crucial in such situations. If you decide to discuss your feelings, be prepared for any outcome and understand that your friend may not feel the same way. If they don't have your romantic feelings, it's essential to respect their boundaries and decisions and continue valuing the friendship.

Increased attention and interest: They may start paying more attention to you, remembering small details about your life, and showing a genuine interest in your well-being.
Frequent communication: If they are constantly reaching out, texting, calling, or finding reasons to spend time with you, it could be a sign of developing feelings.
Body language: Watch for changes in their body language, such as increased eye contact, leaning in closer when talking, or finding excuses to touch you subtly.
Compliments and admiration: They might compliment you more often, praising your qualities, and expressing admiration for your accomplishments.
Emotional intimacy: They may have their deepest thoughts, feelings, and secrets with you, seeking a deeper emotional connection.
Jealousy: If they display jealousy or become defensive when you mention other potential romantic interests, it could indicate their growing feelings for you.
Making future plans: They might frequently bring up the idea of doing things together in the future, hinting at a desire for a long-term connection.
Changes in behavior: Observe if they act nervously or differently around you compared to other mutual friends, as they might be trying to hide their feelings.

It is important not to jump to conclusions based on this list as different people show kindness and affection in different ways. The best approach is open communication. If you have a strong friendship, talking about your feelings and concerns openly can lead to a deeper understanding of each other's emotions and intentions.

Feeling attracted to a friend is a common experience rooted in the emotional connection, common experiences, and trust that a strong friendship fosters. Spending time together, sharing values and interests, and offering mutual support can deepen these feelings. Sometimes, physical attraction can also play a role.

It's essential to recognize that having feelings for a friend is normal and not something to be ashamed of. Should you choose to explore the possibility of a romantic relationship, open and honest communication is vital, but it's equally important to respect your friend's feelings and decisions, as not all friendships will naturally evolve into romantic partnerships, and maintaining the friendship's integrity is equally valuable.

You may also feel a hint of jealousy or unease when they are interested in others romantically and you may feel sexually attracted to them. Reflect on your feelings, assess if they are enduring, and consider open communication to explore the possibility of a romantic relationship, being prepared for any outcome while respecting their feelings.

It can be challenging to determine if you should tell your friend that you love them. If you are worried about how they will react, it can be beneficial to think about your feelings and self-reflect before committing to action. This will allow you to play out all of the “what ifs” in your mind before telling them.

Remember that it is important to respect your friend’s response, it may take them some time to process what you are telling them, especially if they were not thinking about the same thing. Even if your friend doesn’t feel the same way, you still may be able to remain friends if you approach the situation with respect and empathy.

Distinguishing between romantic and platonic feelings can be challenging, but there are some key differences to look for:

Intensity of emotions: Romantic feelings tend to be more intense and passionate compared to platonic feelings. You might feel a strong desire for physical intimacy and a deep emotional connection with romantic feelings.
Physical attraction: Romantic feelings often involve a physical attraction to the person, whereas platonic feelings are primarily based on emotional bonds and friendship.
Thoughts and fantasies: If you find yourself constantly daydreaming about being in a romantic relationship with your friend, it's likely romantic feelings. Platonic feelings, on the other hand, involve thoughts about maintaining a close friendship and enjoying each other's company.
Jealousy and possessiveness: Romantic feelings can sometimes lead to feelings of jealousy or possessiveness when your friend shows interest in others. In a platonic relationship, you would genuinely want them to find happiness, even if it's not with you.
Physical touch and proximity: Romantic feelings often involve a desire for physical touch, cuddling, or being physically close to the person, while platonic relationships are more comfortable with boundaries.
Long-term aspirations: Romantic feelings may lead you to envision a future together as a couple, whereas in a platonic friendship, your long-term aspirations may involve common goals as friends.
Communication style: The way you communicate with someone you have romantic feelings for might differ, with more flirtatious or affectionate language compared to how you interact with platonic friends.

It's important to note that these distinctions are not always black and white, and sometimes, feelings can be a mix of both. If you're unsure about your feelings, take time for introspection and consider talking openly with the person about your emotions.

Yes, it is entirely possible to suddenly develop romantic feelings for a friend. Romantic feelings can arise unexpectedly, even in long-established friendships. It can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as spending more time together, sharing significant experiences, or discovering new qualities and traits in your friend that you find attractive.

These sudden romantic feelings can be confusing, especially if you've only seen your friend platonically for a long time. However, it's a normal and natural occurrence in human relationships. If you find yourself experiencing such feelings, take some time to introspect and understand the nature of these emotions. It's crucial to approach the situation with sensitivity and open communication, whether you decide to explore a romantic relationship or continue cherishing the friendship as it is.

Yes, it is entirely normal to start liking a friend. In fact, many romantic relationships begin as friendships. When you spend time with someone, discuss experiences, and build trust, it's natural for feelings to develop and evolve over time. Friendships provide a solid foundation for romantic connections, as they involve emotional intimacy, understanding, and common interests.

Liking a friend can be a beautiful and positive experience, but it's important to handle it with care and respect. If you find yourself developing feelings for a friend, take some time to reflect on the nature of your emotions and consider if a romantic relationship is something you both want. If you choose to express your feelings, remember that open communication is crucial, and be prepared for any outcome, whether it leads to a romantic relationship or strengthens your friendship

Yes, you can kiss a friend , but it's essential to consider the context and circumstances before doing so. Kissing a friend can have different implications depending on the nature of your friendship and the level of mutual consent and understanding.

In some cases, friends may have a platonic kiss as a gesture of affection, such as a friendly peck on the cheek or a hug. These kinds of affectionate gestures are generally harmless and are common among close friends in many cultures.

However, if you're considering a more romantic or intimate kiss, it's crucial to approach the situation with caution. Assess the nature of your friendship and whether your friend reciprocates your feelings. Open communication is essential to avoid misunderstandings or discomfort. Make sure you have both consented to taking your relationship in a more romantic direction before initiating any intimate actions.

Why Is My Boyfriend Ignoring Me? What It Could Mean And How To Respond Medically reviewed by Andrea Brant , LMHC
What To Do When You Feel Ignored And How It Affects Mental Health Medically reviewed by Paige Henry , LMSW, J.D.
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/r/Relationships is a community built around helping people and the goal of providing a platform for interpersonal relationship advice between redditors. We seek posts from users who have specific and personal relationship quandaries that other redditors can help them try to solve.

I fell in love with my best friend, and told her. She does not feel the same way. Don't know what to do.

Hi r/relationships , hate to turn to the advice of strangers but I really don't know what I should do.

I'm a 29 y.o. male and she is a 27 y.o. female. I've known this girl for 5 years or more, and over the last couple of years we have become very close. She has had a string of bad relationships and has no interest in romance of any sorts (or that's what she said anyway). Therefore I shrugged off her rejecting my repeated advances.

I knew I had strong feelings for her but as long as she wasn't with anyone I was just happy to be around her. We have extremely similar interests and senses of humor... the list could go on. Then one day she meets this guy, and they have been hanging out together every other day, at least 3-4 times a week.

He's a nice enough guy and all. His girlfriend just passed away after a two year battle with cancer only 2 weeks before she met him. I'm sure he's just looking for some companionship and a friend who is new to the situation. She says its purely platonic, just like it is with me. Then she texts me that she doesn't think she can resist kissing him.

I subsequently turned my phone off and sulked for two days. When I finally pulled my head out of my ass I found that she was frantically trying to contact me. After much internal deliberation, I wrote her a love e-mail (a pretty good one if I do say so myself). I confessed my love for her and how her telling me that she couldn't resist kissing him hurt me and how smart, funny, intelligent, and beautiful she is and blah blah blah.

She then sends a letter back saying that she has no romantic feelings for anyone and the thought of losing me as her friend breaks her heart. I attempt to pull myself together. I really don't want to lose her even as a friend.

Today she tells me that she spent the night over at the guys house. She says that she slept on the couch and I believe her, its just I know where it is going to go from there.

I am green with jealousy. He is this brooding, more successful than I, and an amateur MMA fighter. I really don't have a chance to compete. Every time I'm with this girl it takes all the will power I have to not make a move on her. It drives me nuts. I don't know if I can be around her anymore.

So what do I do guys, walk away and lose my best friend? Do I attempt to tough it out and completely emasculate myself? I really don't know.

TL;DR Told best friend I loved her and the feeling is not mutual. She is probably falling for another man. What do I do?

Edit: Spelling (Nazis) and for the record I've had three girlfriends and had a few casual encounters during the time I've known her. It's only been the last 6 months I've been actively pursuing her.

UPDATE: Well, it's done. I invited her over last night, had a couple drinks, chatted for a bit, and I let her know that I can't see her again. She cried, we hugged, and now I'm planning how to move on. This sucks but that is to be expected. I realize it was the only correct decision. Thanks for your advice everyone.

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I was upset my friend was getting married. Then I toppled her wedding cake

“Where does the cake go?” I asked a bow-tied bartender, my voice tight and panicked. I was in my best cocktail dress and heels, trying to keep my grip on a box roughly the size, and weight, of a bear cub.

I’d been late getting ready, late picking up the cake, and now I was late to my friend Stephanie’s wedding . I’d missed the ceremony completely and it was already cocktail hour. I just wanted to get the cake through the crowd and onto the dessert table before the bride noticed.

The bartender pointed me toward the reception tent on the other side of the winery. As I shuffled forward, I grumbled to myself: Why did I have to volunteer to transport the cake? Why, I wondered, was I going to this wedding at all?

Stephanie was my next-door neighbor. Her getting married meant she and her 4-year-old daughter were moving, which meant both my toddler and I were losing our best, and closest, friends. Of course, I knew I was supposed to be happy for Stephanie, who’d finally found true love. And on the outside, I was. I smiled, I celebrated, and I put on heels. But on the inside, I was drooping like a day-old bouquet.

When I eventually placed the box on the dessert table, I sighed with relief. I even gave a wink and two thumbs up to a waiter, who was putting out the last of the silverware. Finally, my task was complete. Maybe now I could find a glass of wine and try to enjoy myself.

But my joy turned to horror when I opened the box and found the cake, a two-tier confection with white buttercream frosting, decorated with greenery, was almost completely horizontal: smushed up against the side of its cardboard box.

I stood, frozen, staring at the cake. Frosting was everywhere, sections of yellow cake popping out. I had the scary thought that somehow, subconsciously, I might have done this on purpose.

It all started when Stephanie began dating her husband-to-be.

She and I sat on my front patio, sharing a bottle of wine and a cheese plate my husband had prepared for us. Our toddlers were taking turns going down a plastic slide.

“There’s just something about him,” my friend said. “I can see myself with him. I think he’s the one.”

I congratulated her, poured more wine, and assured her that her new boyfriend seemed like a great catch. I was genuinely happy for her.

As the months passed, when we’d chat over our garden wall or meet for toddler playdates, Stephanie would mention marriage more and more. I was excited, asking when she thought he was going to propose. I always told her how fun married life could be and was looking forward to watching her be a bride. But eventually, she started mentioning the new home she and her bigger family would need. He wanted more space than her two-bedroom townhome and she wanted a place where they could start fresh together. “Neither his place nor my place — our place,” she told me.

I hated the idea.

Ever since I’d moved into the neighborhood two years before, Stephanie and I had been fast friends. I could always depend on her if I needed a last-minute babysitter and she could always count on me to bring over pizza and dessert on days she had to work late. Whenever one of us unexpectedly ran out of baby wipes, the other was always ready to pass a package over the garden wall.

It meant so much to have a mom friend next door, especially when I felt unsure of my skills as a parent. Stephanie had a teenager as well, so as the more experienced parent, she’d give me valuable advice and introduce me to the best local toddler activities and classes. When I complained about a hard parenting day, she commiserated. It always made me feel better. She was one of the first people I told after I found out I was pregnant with my second, and there were many days when she came over to hold my newborn so I could shower or take a nap.

One day, Stephanie texted me a picture of an engagement ring. “He proposed! I can’t believe it,” she wrote.

I couldn’t believe it either, or maybe I didn’t want to.

After that, things moved fast. Wedding plans were made, a date was set, and soon, Stephanie started packing. Her fiancé had found them a beautiful home in the next city over.

I started dreading the wedding. Stephanie’s friendship had meant so much to me. Without her next door, I didn’t know what I’d do.

On the day of Stephanie’s wedding, I woke up feeling off. I was distracted, thinking about a close friend who had moved out of state in middle school and another friend who had transferred out of our college. People say they’ll keep in touch, but it’s always hard.

I stomped around all morning as I got ready, got the kids dressed and finally picked up the cake. It wasn’t until later that day, when I opened the cake box and found the frosting covering the inside of the box, that I finally snapped out of my mood.

My friend’s wedding cake was splattered like a pie in a “Looney Tunes” cartoon. And it was all my fault.

I was shocked. My friend’s wedding cake was splattered like a pie in a “Looney Tunes” cartoon. And it was all my fault. Had this happened when I turned off the freeway? Had I tilted it too much while walking through the venue? Did the air conditioning not reach my car’s hatchback, causing the cake to simply melt onto itself? I wasn’t sure.

I stood there, frustrated, sad and on the verge of tears. I’d missed my friend’s wedding ceremony, missed her finally saying “I do,” and now I was ruining the reception, delivering a mess of a cake. Stephanie had been there for me, supported and encouraged me often over the last two years, and I’d let her down on her big day. I wanted to step away from the table, get to my car and drive away as fast as I could. But I knew I had to, somehow, try to fix this.

The guests were still at cocktail hour, which meant Stephanie was busy taking photos on the other side of the venue. But I knew I was quickly running out of time.

I gently pulled the cake up and out of the box, letting the top half rest on my forearm as I kept the two layers somewhat together. When a waiter walked by, I shouted, “Get me a knife!” like a surgeon in a medical drama. He handed me a myriad of utensils and I got to work, trying to push the cake right-side up and level the frosting. Another woman, who I later learned was the caterer, offered a pitcher of water. “A wet knife will work better,” she said. She dipped a knife in the water and covered a patch of exposed cake with ease. “Don’t worry, I’ve seen a lot worse,” she said before getting back to preparing the buffet food.

I was grateful for help from this apparent frosting whisperer, but from the smell of rosemary chicken she was now uncovering, I knew I was running out of time.

Now on my own, and with seconds to finish, I tried my best to smooth the final sections. I even stole greenery from the table centerpieces to cover the hopeless sections. In the end, I had frosting on my hands, on my dress and in my hair, and the cake still leaned slightly to one side — but I thought it looked OK. Almost normal.

When the first wedding guests started arriving at the reception tent, I took that as my cue to head to cocktail hour and find my husband and kids. Together, we walked to our table.

As we mixed in with the other guests, chatted with some of Stephanie’s other friends and eventually found our table, I kind of felt like that cake. I’d been a droopy mess before, but now I felt pieced together and ready for a party.

Sure, I was losing a great neighbor, but at the same time, there was so much to be thankful for, so much to celebrate. Of course I wanted to be there. I wanted to stand tall and celebrate my friend.

In the end, everyone seemed to enjoy the cake, even though it was a little off. When I took a break from dancing to get a slice, it was already gone.

I saw Stephanie outside the next morning. She was on her way to the airport, ready for her honeymoon. When I apologized for the cake, she just laughed and said it wasn’t a big deal. Still, I found myself apologizing again and again. I knew I was sorry about more than just the cake. “When you get back, let me know how I can help you finish packing,” I said, giving her a big hug.

In the past six months since Stephanie moved, I have to admit, we’ve only seen each other a handful of times. Maybe she and I will figure out how to keep in touch better than I have with other friends who have moved. Maybe we won’t. But I’m so lucky I had Stephanie for a next-door neighbor when I did. Now, we might not be as physically close, but I hope we’re friends for a long time.

And while Stephanie said the cake wasn’t a big deal, I still feel bad. Every so often, I wonder about my first thought when I first opened the box, if I really did wreck it on purpose. But the more I think about it, the more I’m sure it was an accident. Things happen: Cakes fall, we run late, friends move. We just have to try to do our best and, when we’re down, hope someone will help build us back up and smooth the edges.

Jillian Pretzel is a California-based writer and mom of two. You can find her on Instagram or at www.jillianpretzel.com .

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My Best Friend Essay in English (100, 200, 300, 500 Words)

A best friend is a special and unforgettable person in our lives and will stay longer than other common friends. We share most of the things, conversations, and important talks and support them anytime in our lives.

In this topic, we are discussing the best friend and the memories that we all spent with our friends and best friends.

We have covered an essay pattern in various paragraphs of around 100 words, 200 words, 300 words, and 500 words, respectively, that helps many of the children or students of class 2 to 12th to understand the short and descriptive essay pattern of the best friend.

Table of Contents

My Best Friend Essay 100 Words

I always thank God that he sent Rahul into my life as my best friend, and I also wish that everyone has a friend like Rahul. Rahul and I met on the first day of school after the summer vacation when we were studying in the 5th standard.

I also remember an incident when our class teacher asked him about his previous school and the place from where he came. He is a good speaker, and he gave an interesting answer to everyone in his introduction in class.

He is good at studies and also a good athlete. He loves running and singing too, and his handwriting is also very neat and clean. I feel happy to become his friend, and he also loves my company, and we spend most of our time together.

My Best Friend Essay 200 Words

I have had a lot of friends since childhood, but Raghav is one of the kindest and most trustworthy friends for me. I must say that Rohan has been my best friend since childhood. He is a very good person and a true friend because he has a good manner that he never lies to anyone, and hates people who lie to him. He is a kind boy and also a sincere student. We both live in the same building, and our apartments are also in front of each other.

My parents also met my friend in the school at the parents-teachers meeting, and they also like Raghav and his sincerity. We both have been in the same class from the 3rd standard until now. We are in the 10th standard now, and we both help each other in the preparation for Board exams, which will be held in the month of March.

He always invites me to his house to play video games with him. Every Sunday, we both enjoy playing video games with popcorn and juice together. Sometimes, our school teachers also wonder about our true friendship and the strong bond between us. He has a set of badminton rackets and a shuttle, and we also play together in the evening near our building. We both love each other’s company.

My Best Friend Essay 300 Words

Everyone has at least a single friend who is more than just a friend to them. Getting a friend is common, but getting a true friend is very rare and a bit special. It is like a big achievement for people to get a trustworthy and lifelong best friend. I also had a best friend in my life too since childhood. His name is Ganaraj, and his mother is Telugu. We are neighbors too and also classmates. We always sit together in school and also spend most of the time together.

He is a very talented person and always supports me in my studies. We both like mathematics, and also we love to solve maths numerical problems. I like to play games, and we both always play games together and participate in the sports that are held in school. Our favorite sport is Cricket, and we both are good all-rounders on our school cricket team. Our class teacher always suggests and supports us to play cricket even better and also helps in education to achieve success in life.

He is very valuable to me, and I always value his friendship as I value my parents. He is like my family, as a brother from another mother. Whenever I need his help and support, my best friend is there for me to hold me. We both live in the precious moment and create memories that will stay with me forever. Our friendship is a kind of beautiful relationship, and I hope any kind will never break these mistakes. Every Sunday, we go together to a playground near our locality, and we spend most of our time there. My parents also like Ganaraj to be my friend. Everyone is happy with our friendship and has a strong bond that never goes down in any situation.

My Best Friend Essay 500 Words

My best friend’s name is Siddhart Jadhav. We have been friends since class 7th A in Alfred Nobel High School. We both studied in the same school in childhood but not in the same class as our sections are different. Later that time, all the students from all the sections are sorted according to the previous academics’ percentages and grades and separated into four different sections. Due to this separation, I met Siddhart in the 7th A, and we became friends at that time. Later, time goes by, and our friendship bond becomes stronger, and we become best friends with each other and spend most of our time together in school, tuition, and extra classes. We also sit on the same bench in the classroom.

Our likes and dislikes are also common, and we also love to dance and sing. In every annual gathering and other function that is held in our school, we both participate and give our best performances. We never wanted to win the competitions, our intention was to enjoy the gathering. Some of our school teachers don’t like our togetherness and friendship, but some of them loved and always blessed our strong bonded friendship to stay longer and longer. Siddharth and I always talked in the running classroom, and most of the time, our teacher also punished both of us by standing outside the classroom. We always tried to irritate the lecturer in the chemistry lectures by asking tons of doubts and questions. We eat tiffin boxes sitting on the last benches.

Apart from this naughtiness, Siddharth is very punctual, and he is never late for coming to school and attending classes. He always completes his homework at a given time and being with him, I also start studying very well and completing my homework on time. He keeps his books and copies very clean. His writing is very nice and encourages me to write cleanly and clearly for better understanding. My parents also compliment my friend that being with him, I also become responsible and a good student.

Siddharth and I are both excellent football players and athletes. When we both start playing the football game, the opponent team never wins. Our sports teacher always motivates us and tells us that we will become good football players one day. My parents also know Siddharth very much, and they like his pleasant behavior. Feel free when Siddharth and I stay together, whether for playing games, video games, study, or for going out to have fun with other classmates. Siddharth is my best friend, my first friend. He is the one who offers me help in my studies when I need it, supports me and always shows love to me, defends me, and stands by my side in any situation no matter what.

In academics, my best friend, Siddharth, is chosen to be awarded the best student of the year in the 10th class. He is one of the brilliant students of our school and also won many of the competitions that were held in school. He is like a well-wisher, and I always enjoyed his company. He, too, feels secure and relieved by spending time with me as well. He is like a problem-solving friend to me. I never wanted to lose him in my life.

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My best friend confessed feelings

What’s been on your mind about your dating/relationship life? Ask your own question. Get it off your chest (it feels good). Use the anonymous form or email [email protected] .

My best friend confessed his feelings for me, even though I’ve been in a relationship of three years. I’m happy in my relationship and would not want to give it up.

That said, my partner is asexual and sometimes it’s really hard to live with that – but everything else is perfect.

I had a really bad emotional reaction to the confession of my best friend. Now I’m really nervous and unsure of what I want. It’s hard to know whether my feelings for him are about attraction or sympathy.

It’s really too much for my head at the moment, and I feel as if I’m too overwhelmed with the situation.

– Anonymous

I can’t read your mind, but based on your short letter, it doesn’t sound like you’ve been harboring feelings for this best friend.

There’s been no secret crush on your side, right? When you received this information, you felt … dread? Anxiety? (Add some words here. It might help.)

Actually, let’s lean into that idea and try some bespoke Mad Libs. Fill in the blanks, please.

“I love my best friend because he is ___, ___, and ___. If a wonderful person wanted to date him, I’d tell them ___. When my best friend told me he had feelings for me, my first thought was ___. If I was single, I would call my friend and ask them to ___. In 20 years, I hope my best friend and I are ___ doing ___.”

That’s Mad Libs therapy. Sometimes the story tells itself. (Don’t sue me, Mad Libs.)

I assume you’ll read it back and realize that no matter what, this isn’t what you want now. You’re allowed to tell your friend you’re not into the idea. You can ask about next steps for preserving the friendship – or giving him space to reset. Be kind and empathetic. ( Empathy , not sympathy . Big difference sometimes.)

Then look at your own relationship. If you want to open it, that’s great – assuming your partner is on board, of course. Worth mentioning: I’m not sure the easiest way to try being open is to involve a very best friend with big feelings for you.

Maybe there’s a way to start smaller.

– Meredith

Readers? Does the tone of the letter suggest … reciprocated feelings? What about the current relationship and opening it up?

Ask your own question. Use the anonymous form or email [email protected] .

Featured Comment

If you’re not interested in your friend, you apologize for your initial reaction and kindly let them know that you want to maintain your friendship. I think the letter you should have been writing is about if you are happy in your relationship. You don’t provide a lot of details but if your partner is asexual and you’re not, that’s a pretty big compromise.

Be civil. Be kind.

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I moved to Finland and fell in love with the free healthcare and work-life balance. It's a great place to raise my daughters.

Andro Lindsay moved his family from Santiago to Helsinki through the 90 Day Finn program in 2021.
The program offers assistance on international moves and help getting set up professionally.
Lindsay and his daughters loved Finland so much that they stayed permanently after 90 days.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Andro Lindsay , a 48-year-old who moved from Santiago, Chile, to Helsinki. It's been edited for length and clarity.

I was born in Santiago and raised in Chile. My relationship with Finland started over 20 years ago — I've been a part of several businesses with links to Finland, and some of my best friends are Finns.

I'm an industrial engineer who started my career at big corporations in Chile, but I always wanted to make an impact as an entrepreneur.

In 2009, I resigned from a very good position at an airline to go out on my own. I've built online marketplaces and cofounded a solar photovoltaic and energy efficiency company, a venture focusing on copper mining, pulp and paper, another in AI and robotics, and several consultancies.

Now, I'm in charge of business development for systemic complex challenges, focusing on carbon neutrality , at the VTT Technical Research Center of Finland.

A program called "90 Day Finn" was launched in 2021

The program , launched by Helsinki Partners , aims to attract talent from the rest of the world and bring it to Helsinki . Selected applicants receive a 90-day relocation package for their entire family.

I built my personal and family life here

I'm a proud dad of two intelligent and beautiful girls. It was the perfect time to bring them to a new country to experience education, safety, and a Finnish perspective on life.

The team from Helsinki Partners provided me with detailed information about visas, accommodations, school for my girls, and activities in the area and helped me throughout the process.

I knew I would enjoy Helsinki and decide to stay. The logistics of moving to Finland and landing here were effortless. I applied for residency for my family and me, and the residence visas were ready in a couple of weeks.

My favorite things about Finnish culture are the balance between professional and personal life , technology and nature, and economic growth and sustainability. I also value the amazing free education, free healthcare, safety, access to everything you need, and closeness to nature, saunas, and ice.

The venture I originally came to build in Finland focused on smart cities failed, but I was still in love with my vision

When I first moved, I met with most of the Finnish ecosystem in the built environment, energy, mobility, construction, and architecture spaces. I started collaborating with entities and investors, including VTT.

It made sense to become an intrapreneur, join VTT, and help the organization from the inside to address new global challenges such as sustainable mining, decarbonization of cities, and competitive production of green hydrogen and derivatives. I've expanded my work to include sustainable mining, green hydrogen, and more.

Right now, I'm leading a bi-national consortium between Finland and Chile, matching government, private companies, R&D entities, and universities from these countries around strategic topics like sustainable mining that are key to both countries' sustainable development.

The only challenge was to learn the local language

Finnish is quite tricky and requires serious time to learn, but everyone in Finland speaks fluent English and many other languages. Every day, I encounter Finns who speak fluent Spanish with me.

Helsinki is an amazing city. Santiago has 10 times more people than Helsinki, but everything that I could have in Santiago, I can have in Helsinki (and more).

We had two cars in Santiago. Here, everything is less than a 15-minute walk away. Helsinki has amazing natural surroundings, such as Kaivopuisto Park, Seurasaari Island, and Hietaranta Beach. It's a smart, sustainable, and resilient city.

I like the food in Finland a lot. My daughters and I love Fazer Chocolate and Korvapuusti (Finnish cinnamon rolls). We also love Poronkäristys (sautéed reindeer), salmon soup, salmon in any way, and toast Skagen (originally Swedish but very rooted in Finland).

The social scene is active in summer, full of daily events and activities. Winter is much quieter, and people focus more on getting things done. Art and cultural activities are very present in Finland all year long.

My daughters fell in love with Finland as soon as we arrived

My daughters already speak Finnish. Their school was amazing when they first started, and both of them received extra support for language and everything they needed. Soon, they started to talk not just Finnish but also a bit of other languages because of the international students within their group.

Since everything is very close and safe in Helsinki, my girls rapidly gained more freedom to go to nearby parks and other places. Their favorite place became the public library.

We all fell in love with Finnish culture, and we couldn't be happier here. This is our home now.

Watch: Was Italy's $1 home scheme worth it?

Main content

50 best friend quotes to remind you how beautiful friendship really is

Love can come in many forms, whether it be romantic, platonic or a combination of both. Strong friendships sit at the top of that pyramid, often acting as a safe space where we can be who we truly are.

They say actions speak louder than words. But sometimes, you may want to verbalize how much you love and appreciate the special people in your life. That's where quotes can help.

Here is a compiled list of quotes about friends and friendship:

50 friendship quotes

"A day without a friend is like a pot without a single drop of honey left inside." – Winnie the Pooh
"A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you." – Elbert Hubbard
"No person is your friend (or kin) who demands your silence, or denies your right to grow." – Alice Walker , "In Search of Our Mothers' Gardens: Prose"
"The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that they can grow separately without growing apart." – Elisabeth Foley
"Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you; spend a lot of time with them, and it will change your life." – Amy Poehler , "The Art of Inside Out"
"Friendship is a wildly underrated medication." – Anna Deavere Smith
"Words are easy, like the wind; faithful friends are hard to find." – William Shakespeare , "The Passionate Pilgrim"
"A friend is someone with whom you dare to be yourself." – Frank Crane
"True friends are always together in spirit." – L.M. Montgomery , "Anne of Green Gables"
"When the world is so complicated, the simple gift of friendship is within all of our hands." – Maria Shriver
"The best mirror is an old friend." – George Herbert
"True friendship is when two friends can walk in opposite directions, yet remain side by side." – Josh Grayson
"Wishing to be friends is quick work, but friendship is a slow ripening fruit." – Aristotle
"Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave and impossible to forget." – G. Randolf
"No friendship is an accident." – O. Henry , "Heart of the West"
"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born." – Anais Nin
"In prosperity our friends know us; in adversity we know our friends." – John Churton Collins
"Friendship improves happiness, and abates misery, by doubling our joys, and dividing our grief." – Marcus Tullius Cicero
"Friendship is the wine of life." – Edward Young
"A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked." – Bernard Meltzer
"A single rose can be my garden; a single friend, my world." – Leo Buscaglia
"Friends are those rare people who ask how we are, and then wait to hear the answer." – Ed Cunningham
"Friendship is the golden thread that ties the heart of all the world." – John Evelyn
"There is nothing I would not do for those who are really my friends. I have no notion of loving people by halves; it is not my nature." – Jane Austen , "Northanger Abbey"
"Time doesn't take away from friendship, nor does separation." – Tennessee Williams , "Memoirs"
"Remember that life's most valuable antiques are dear old friends." – H. Jackson Brown Jr.
"Two things you will never have to chase: True friends & true love." – Mandy Hale
"It’s not that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but it’s your best friends who are your diamonds." – Gina Barreca
"I always felt that the great high privilege, relief and comfort of friendship was that one had to explain nothing." – Katherine Mansfield
"A best friend is the only one that walks into your life when the world has walked out." – Shannon I. Adler
"There are three things that grow more precious with age; old wood to burn, old books to read, and old friends to enjoy." – Henry Ford
"Friends should be like books, few, but hand-selected." – C.J. Langenhoven
"Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." – Marcel Proust
"Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends leave footprints in your heart." – Eleanor Roosevelt
"Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It's not something you learn in school. But if you haven't learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven't learned anything." – Muhammad Ali
"Life is an ugly, awful place to not have a best friend." – Sarah Dessen , "Someone Like You"
"True friendship is a plant of slow growth." – George Washington
"How much good inside a day? Depends how good you live 'em. How much love inside a friend? Depends how much you give 'em." – Shel Silverstein , "A Light in the Attic"
"Every life needs a little space. It leaves room for good things to enter it." – Sarah Addison Allen , "The Peach Keeper"
"If you have two friends in your lifetime, you're lucky. If you have one good friend, you're more than lucky." – S.E. Hinton
"True friendship resists time, distance and silence." – Isabel Allende
"A friend knows the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memory fails." – Donna Roberts
"True happiness consists not in the multitude of friends, but in the worth and choice." – Ben Johnson
"Friendship is love without wings." – George Gordon Byron
"Friends... they cherish one another's hopes. They are kind to one another's dreams." – Henry David Thoreau , "A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers"
"I'm so thankful for friendship. It beautifies life so much." – L.M. Montgomery , "Anne of Avonlea"
"That was what a best friend did: hold up a mirror and show you your heart." – Kristin Hannah , "Firefly Lane"
"A friend is one who walks in when others walk out." – Walter Winchell
"A good friend is a connection to life – a tie to the past, a road to the future, the key to sanity in a totally insane world." – Lois Wyse
"Good friends are like stars. You don't always see them, but you know they're always there." – Christy Evans

Looking for positivity? 50 motivational quotes for peak inspiration.

Just Curious for more? We've got you covered

USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From " What is my love language? " to " What kind of dog is Snoopy? " to " Is Mercury in retrograde? " – we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our Just Curious section to see what else we can answer.

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JD Vance, an Unlikely Friendship and Why It Ended

His political views differed from a transgender classmate’s, but they forged a bond that lasted a decade — until Mr. Vance seemed to pivot, politically and personally.

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JD Vance speaking behind a Trump-Vance sign.

By Stephanie Saul

Stephanie Saul, who covers education, reviewed about 90 emails and text messages spanning between 2014 and 2017.

When his book, “Hillbilly Elegy,” was published in 2016, JD Vance sent an email apologizing to a close friend from his Yale Law School days. The friend identified as transgender, but Mr. Vance referred to them in the book as a lesbian.

Listen to this article with reporter commentary

“Hey Sofes, here’s an excerpt from my book,” Mr. Vance wrote to his friend, Sofia Nelson. “I send this to you not just to brag, but because I’m sure if you read it you’ll notice reference to ‘an extremely progressive lesbian.’”

“I recognize now that this may not accurately reflect how you think of yourself, and for that I am really sorry,” he wrote. “I hope you’re not offended, but if you are, I’m sorry! Love you, JD.”

Nelson wrote back the same day, calling Mr. Vance “buddy” and thanking him for “being sweet,” adding, “If you had written gender queer radical pragmatist, nobody would know what you mean.” Nelson asked for an autographed copy, then signed off with, “Love, Sofia.”

That exchange is from a series of emails between two friends, part of a close-knit group of 16 students who remained together throughout their first law school semester in the fall of 2010. As now-Senator Vance seeks the vice presidency, Nelson has shared about 90 of their emails and text messages, primarily from 2014 through 2017, with The New York Times.

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