Friendship counts as an essential part in individuals’ life. We sometimes struggle to survive alone, hence we cannot really live alone and lose connection with others. What we do everyday needs attachment with other people surrounding us such as family members and friends. Family is our core that we need to fulfill in our lives. Friends come second to most people throughout the globe, including myself. Therefore for me, celebrating friendships everyday is important.   

The International Day of Friendship was proclaimed in 2011 by the UN General Assembly with the idea that friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities. In Cambodia, NGOs celebrate this event annually to remind and encourage close connection and attachment among kids, their families, their teachers, as well as their local communities. 

“True friends are people who are there for you at the good and bad times and stay by your side.” 

No matter how the tides will turn in the future, we can always count on our real friends to stick with us. They are there to celebrate our lives, and they are there to grieve with us in our losses. That’s why it is only good to celebrate with our friends everyday. They are the support system that is integral in our daily survival. However, this is not a one-way street. This is something that should be reciprocated. We should also do our part in being thoughtful and loyal friends–one that could have a shoulder to lie on. The synergy that this brings becomes a strong part of our lives. Knowing that we have someone that is just a “one call away” is truly special.

Building connections with our peers, be it from work or in school, is one of the best things that we can do for our lives. To enrich our social lives is to enrich our mental well-being as well. That is why Friendship Day should be celebrated everyday. Hug a friend today!

Written by: Mr. Kimsroy Khy, Deputy Campus Director, Choam Chao Campus