Forgiveness; How Apologizing saved my lifelong friendship

Shola and I had been inseparable since our quiz competition days in primary school. We had a strong bond, sharing secrets, dreams, and laughter. We went to the same secondary and also the same university, and studied the same course. Can you see the level of our friendship? We even made a promise to become each other's person's chief bridesmaid on our wedding day.

Myself and Shola

One day, Shola canceled our planned study session at the last minute without notice, I was waiting for her at the front of the school hall, standing for almost 2hours that fateful day, already feeling frustrated and abandoned. I had sacrificed a lot to make it to our session, and her absence hurt me deeply. Did I call her? Yes, I did but she didn't pick up. How on earth would I have Known her side of the story if she didn't explain? I was hurt!😡😡

She didn't respond to my calls till three days after🤔I was clearly waiting for an apology, but instead, she justified her actions, saying she had a family emergency. I understood that, but her lack of remorse and acknowledgment of my feelings hurt me more. We started to drift apart, our conversations becoming superficial. We were not in a talking mood for a good two weeks and I promised I would pay her back for causing me so much pain.

One day, I realized that my hurt and anger were affecting our friendship. I took the initiative to reach out and apologize for my part in the misunderstanding. I acknowledged her family emergency and expressed how her absence had affected me. To my surprise, she opened up about her struggles, she said her mum was rushed for emergency because she had chronic typhoid. I listened attentively in tears. and apologized sincerely for her actions. Immediately, I apologize for judging her actions wrongly too. I offer her support and words of encouragement. We started to reconnect, sharing our fears, dreams, and aspirations once again.

Since that day, we realized that our friendship was worth more than any misunderstanding. We laughed together, reminiscing about old times and creating new memories. Our bond grew stronger, and we became more empathetic and understanding towards each other. We made a conscious effort to communicate openly no matter what, respecting each other's feelings and needs. Our friendship became more resilient, and we continued to support each other through life's ups and downs.

Jolly friends

Our friendship taught me the value of forgiveness, apologies, and open communication. I learned that relationships require effort and understanding from both sides and that sometimes, taking the first step toward reconciliation can lead to a stronger and more meaningful bond.

Years later, Shola and I still cherish our friendship, grateful for that turning point when we chose to apologize, listen, and support each other. Our story serves as a reminder that true friendships can overcome obstacles and flourish with love, respect, and understanding.

Note: We eventually became each other's chief bridesmaid on our wedding day and we are still rocking our friendship to date.

The images used are mine from my phone gallery.

My response to #theneoxiancity prompts#19 on the topic; Reflect on a time when you had to apologize to a friend or partner and how it affected your relationship.