Befriend with Your Partner?
It almost seems absurd to think that your partner — someone so close to you — couldn’t be your friend.
If we can measure in adulthood how our childhood was built, it is not separated from the time spent being friends with people. In seeking of quality relationship, we may seek friend(s) that are not only there for laughter or fooling around. They can be a supporter, helping you with even the smallest tasks — like giving opinions on your shirt choices — and, more importantly, simply “being there” during the lowest points, moments you might not even share with family. They’re someone who shares your journey, offering both their presence and their trust.
To reciprocate, and in compatibility, friend(s) support you just as you support them. This might mean accepting their quirks or flaws — just as they do for you. At its core, I think that’s what we all want in any relationship: to be accepted as we are, which means being able to give and receive that same acceptance in return.
This need for acceptance applies not just to friendships but also to romantic relationships. Of course, how we approach this might differ from person to person. Some might naturally expect more from a partner than a friend, while others hold similar expectations for both. But when we look beyond the labels, isn’t the essence of any meaningful relationship built on the same foundation — acceptance, mutual support, and understanding?
IF you value growth, you may find a way to grow together with them, hoping to improve their quality of life as you improve yours. A true friend — or partner — might inspire growth, but they also allow you to be yourself.
Without making too many assumptions about love relationships, it’s worth reflecting on how the foundations of friendship can also strengthen partnerships. Friendship and partnership are about building bonds through acceptance, support, and shared goals. (And yes, the goal of no goal is also a goal)
As @juliandemedeiros shared in social media, quoting philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche:
“What makes most relationships fail is not a lack of love, it is lack of friendship. Happy relationship is one in which it feels like you are in love with your best friend.”
This idea resonates and implies that love and friendship aren’t separate. A happy relationship isn’t just about romantic gestures — it’s about the quiet, steady connection of two people who genuinely support and understand each other. Friendship within love creates a space where acceptance, understanding, trust, and growth can flourish.
Isn’t this what makes a relationship endure? The ability to weather life’s challenges together, not just as lovers, but as companions and confidants.
Perhaps the key to any relationship is finding that balance — accepting each other as we are, while growing together. So… friend for life?
