August 1st§ was International Girlfriend Day. For those in romantic relationships, this day meant treating their girlfriends to flowers, making them feel extra special, and showering them with adoration. It was a day to go the extra mile to show appreciation and love. However, International Girlfriend Day also served another important purpose for many. It was a day to celebrate our female friends and recognise the profound impact they have on our lives.
It is often said that women’s friendships can be difficult to navigate. This sentiment might be rooted in truth to some extent, but it is essential to understand that the perceived difficulty arises from the complexity and dynamics essential in every friendship. Some people associate this notion with a high school perspective, where drama about boys and appearances often complicates relationships. However, as women grow older and wiser, their perspectives and relationships evolve.
With maturity, women begin to outgrow certain friendships that no longer serve them and may also find that some people outgrow them. This natural evolution can be bittersweet, but it also paves the way for deeper, more meaningful connections. Among these enduring friendships, many women find their true tribe, their chosen family. The friends who remain steadfast through life’s changes and challenges, provide a sense of solace, home, and community.
When I asked various women what they appreciated most about their girlfriends, the responses highlighted the importance of emotional support and safe spaces. Many women expressed gratitude for having friends who hold a safe space for them, a place where they can break down and be vulnerable without judgment. In these friendships, there is a mutual celebration of each other’s victories and a protective guard over each other’s hearts during tough times.
Some women also cherished the idea that their children and future children would benefit from these friendships. They envisioned their friends as aunties who would care for their kids as if they were family, ensuring children would grow up surrounded by love and support.
Ultimately, International Girlfriend Day is a reminder of the unique and invaluable bonds shared between women. It is a celebration of the strength, support, and joy that these friendships bring into our lives, whether in romantic partnerships or through the cherished connections we have with our female friends. The day underscores the importance of acknowledging and nurturing these relationships, recognising that they are a vital part of our emotional well-being and personal growth.
*Frieda Mukufa’s lifestyle section concentrates on women-related issues and parenting bi-weekly in the New Era newspaper. She also specialises in editing research proposals, proofreading as well as content creation. – etuholefrieda@gmail.com