Honestly, I had this childhood friend I grew up with. We literally lived on the same street. In fact, we were neighbours. Our childhood was filled with so many memories—playing street football, walking to school together, sharing little secrets only we knew, and just being there for each other in ways kids often are without even thinking about it. For as long as I can remember, he was like a family to me.
But then life happened. About two years ago, he travelled out of the country to further his studies. Around that same time, my family also relocated from that particular place to a completely different area, so the physical distance between us grew even more. Although during those times, i was still in touch with him. I would message him sometimes, and we’d talk like old times, catching up on certain things.
Then, when I got to 300 level in school, things took a different turn. I was going through a really rough patch financially. I was badly broke, and it felt like I had nowhere else to turn. Because we were close and I knew he was doing well, I reached out to him. I explained my situation, hoping he could help me out. He actually said he would, so I felt a sense of relief. But then, days passed, and weeks passed. I messaged him, and he still didn’t send or even say anything. When he finally replied, he didn’t even bring up the money or the fact that I was waiting. Instead, he started talking about him buying a car—something I knew he had the money for.
I won’t lie. It hurt. Not because I felt entitled to his help, but because I thought our friendship meant more. I thought he would at least remember or show some kind of concern. But he didn’t. And because of the kind of person I am, I didn’t say anything. I just let it go and decided not to expect anything from him anymore.
Fast forward to now, things are different. We’re still on good terms. In fact, last month, when I was home for the holidays, he actually offered to help me out without me even asking. It felt surprising because I had already accepted that maybe he wasn’t someone I could rely on. Life really has a way of testing friendships, and this one taught me a lot about expectations, change, and how people sometimes show up in ways you don’t expect.
Thanks for reading.