"Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art... It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things which give value to survival"

Friendship is a bit like the seasoning in a dish. You don’t need it to survive, but it makes life so much richer and more enjoyable. C.S. Lewis, who said this, was trying to express that friendship, while not essential for mere survival, adds a depth and sweetness to life that’s irreplaceable.

Imagine a world without friends. Sure, you could go about your daily routines, get your work done, eat, sleep, and repeat. You’d be alive, but would you really be living? Friends are the ones who laugh with us during our best moments and support us through our toughest times. They’re like the unexpected plot twists that make our life stories worth telling.

Let’s dive into a historical context for a moment. Lewis, a renowned writer and thinker, lived through the turmoil of both World Wars. He knew what sheer survival looked like. People during those times were focused on getting through each day, often wondering what the future held. But even in such dire circumstances, friendships formed. Soldiers in the trenches formed bonds that were deeper than family. These friendships didn’t provide food or shelter, but they offered something just as crucial—hope, warmth, and a reason to keep fighting.

Now let’s bring this idea into a more personal light. Think about a time when you faced a significant challenge. Maybe it was a grueling exam period, a tough project at work, or a personal loss. Who was there for you? Your friends, right? They might not have been able to solve the problem, but their presence made the burden a bit lighter.

Here’s a vivid example: Lisa, an overworked nurse during the COVID-19 pandemic, was overwhelmed and exhausted. The hours were long, the emotional toll heavy. Yet, what helped her get through each day was a group text with her old college friends. They shared memes, offered words of encouragement, and sometimes just listened. Those messages didn’t cure patients or shorten her shifts, but they gave her the emotional strength to keep going.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? First, cherish and nurture your friendships. Don’t take them for granted. Reach out often, listen, and be there for your friends, even when life gets busy. Second, recognize the value these relationships bring—they aren’t just for fun. They’re essential for your emotional well-being.

Here’s a relatable scenario: Imagine you’ve moved to a new city for a job. It’s exciting but also a bit lonely. One day, you meet a colleague who shares your love for hiking. You start going on weekend hikes together, exploring new trails and sharing stories. Gradually, this colleague becomes a close friend. Suddenly, the city doesn’t feel so foreign. You’ve found someone who turns your survival into a richer, more vibrant experience. The city streets seem friendlier, the challenges at work more manageable.

In the end, it's clear—friendship may not be necessary for survival itself, but it surely gives our survival its true, wonderful meaning. So, next time you share a laugh with a friend or lean on them during a tough time, remember you're experiencing one of life's greatest treasures.