Friendship is like a garden. Flowers die when they are not watered or tended. At some point in the tilling, you might wonder why you took up gardening in the first place – whether having a green thumb is truly essential to life.
Gardening, after all, is a labor of love. There’s so much to learn – understanding plant types, achieving optimal soil conditions, and selecting the right nutrients.
You discover how often to water the plants without drowning them, when to prune, and whether all they need is a little more sunlight.
In friendship, cultivate the small rituals that keep you connected and ensure your roses continue to bloom.
The Power of Rituals
I once lived in a house at the far end of a community. Once you arrived at the gate, it took another 15 minutes to reach my home.
Because the drive was uneventful and the streets were safe, I used that time to call friends on my hands-free device. It became a ritual – 15 minutes of catch-up time embedded into my schedule.
I do the same with mealtime. I value blessing my food; it’s a moment to pause and spend 10 seconds with God. The prayer is deliberate.
Find Your Friendship Rhythm
Create a friendship ritual and weave it into your routine. The other person doesn’t need to know, so it doesn’t feel routine for them. But you will know.
You’ll know you’ve cleared an hour or two to call friends. Your calendar stays light in December for family. A breakfast slot exists because one friend loves coffee and conversation. Your open-door policy means your tribe can drop by anytime for a glass of wine.
Whatever it is, schedule something that prioritizes friendship and community. It’s well worth doing so.
Thank you for reading.
Create a friendship ritual and weave it into your routine. The other person doesn’t need to know so it doesn’t feel routine for them. But you will know.
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For more, read Building Deliberate Friendships.