F.R.I.E.N.D.S

 I would be lying if I said it was mere coincidence that I chose to write this today, 22nd September, the 26th Anniversary of F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

As Anu and Varier said, it is one of the gels that held us together. I remember laughing about episodes and gushing over trivia with Minnu and Kunnu, while we were waiting to be let into our Exam halls for the 10th Boards.

I remember a random Instagram post that said the reason why people love F.R.I.E.N.D.S is not just the humour, the acting or the cast, but because they crave a group that is as close, a group 'that'll be there for you' even when you have fucked up big time.

Well, I have found my Group in Us.

Today, looking back, I smile to see that the majority with whom I am very thick now, frankly intimidated me when I first met them (yeah you, Varier, Vj, Senan, Kunnu - and note the Past tense). I am glad for class 9th and 10th that helped me blend into this group - those years top my school years, being in important positions, validating me with (love and) attention. What fills me over with smooth bubblies all over my chest is the fact that even though we changed schools the next year, changed cities and colleges two years later, NOTHING has changed the bond and the affection. It captured the essence of 'Ageing like fine wine'. 

These people form a huge part of the smirk I give people that say it would have been so Sad and pathetic to have studied in an All Girls school for the first 12 of your formative years.

What began at Holy Angels' School C.B.S.E just grew with and in us, matured and is bearing fruit when we need it most. These times are especially dreadful when you can't have a venting system, a support system, a group full of jokes, cringe and importantly love. A group that substitutes VPMs for sleepover nights, finding content to laugh about, topics to talk about, making it all the more accessible and inclusive. To all those that crave This sort of friendship, I hope you find it and soon

All pieces that built and fit themselves into this dynamic are important to hold it together. I remember a fairly recent discussion about endurance and consistency of this bond. It only gave me even more hope of us growing old together, what with the 5 reassurances for one worry. 

It makes me proud that my kids will learn what friendship is about from us - setting boundaries, opening up when you want, venting when you want, seeking support or appreciation and getting multifolds of consistent Love in return. 

I have a different dynamic with each of them. I could have the most meaningless yet soulful discussions anytime with them, and I love you for existing.

You are a huge part of my identity. Thanks for making me.

Most people wish for luck in love. I wish anybody reading this luck in friendship, for “Girlfriends and Boyfriends may come and go, but THIS is For Life”

Specialised mentions (only) coming your way for birthdays because Phoebe once sang that she met Santa, who asked her to write her friends a song each instead of presents for christmas, because “it’s the gesture” and what’s more overwhelming than memories.