Friendship an Integral Part of Society

Friendship is one of the most endearing bonds in human culture and society. It is a sublime thing that affects every one of us and it brings joy and meaning into our lives. We share all our joys and sorrows with our friends; they are our everlasting companions in the journey of life. Poets and writers have filled a thousand pages on this beautiful relationship. Sir Francis Bacon, the eminent essayist observed, “A principal fruit of friendship is the ease and discharge of the fullness and swellings of the heart, which passions of all kinds do cause and induce.” St. Augustine also described friendship as “sweet beyond the sweetness of life.”

Humans are social animals and we need a social structure to live in. Society is based on mutual co-operation and friendship is one of the essential features of a harmonious society. People have given up their all and even their lives for friendship. There are many myths and legends from cultures all around the world associated with poignant tales of friends who sacrificed their lives for each other. It is no wonder friendship is revered and honored in all societies. But even though people have revered friends and friendship throughout the ages, the tradition of celebrating Friendship Day is comparatively recent.

The idea of a special day in honor of friends and friendship was initially promoted by Joyce Hall, the founder of Hallmark cards in 1930. It originated in the United States and from there the celebrations spread to other countries in the world. And now International Friendship Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of August every year. It is an occasion when we honor our friends and celebrate the joys of friendship. The day is spent in the company of friends and enjoying fun activities with them. There are no fixed customs or traditions associated with Friendship Day but people usually exchange flowers, wrist bands and other gifts. They also express their admiration and love for their friends with exclusive Friendship day cards.

Getting gifts for your friends on the occasion will make the day go more memorable and special for them. Even if they do not care if you get them presents or not, like all people they will feel appreciated and touched by your gesture. One doesn’t have to go for expensive or high value friendship gifts but a truly heartfelt and meaningful friendship gift will be something that will complement their personality. And no one knows your friends better than you. So consider their tastes and preferences while selecting your gifts for Friendship Day.