Recently, I learned of a family friend who passed away alone in his apartment, only discovered days after he went missing. Some said they hadn’t spoken to him in over a week. The news hit me like a ton of bricks. But my initial response? Gratitude.
Now, before you jump to conclusions, let me explain.
I’m blessed with a handful of solid, close friends. These are people I connect with regularly—honestly, most of the time, it’s daily. That might sound excessive to some, but for me, it’s everything. Staying connected to my “peeps” is a non-negotiable priority. They’re at the top of my list, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
“We Haven’t Missed a Beat” — Really?
Not long ago, I saw a Facebook post where someone proudly shared how they hadn’t spoken to a close friend in months—sometimes years—and yet, their bond was “untouched.”
I’m sorry (but also not sorry)—I can’t subscribe to that mindset. If I haven’t spoken to someone I call a friend in months or years, are we really still friends? Whoever started that trend of “no communication friendships” needs a serious wake-up call.
Relationships aren’t autopilot machines—they require effort, consistency, and intentionality. Whether it’s family, friends, or romantic partnerships, connections demand work. There are no shortcuts. No ifs, ands, or buts. And I stand firm on this.
Not on My Watch
Here’s the thing: My friend could never be missing, let alone passed on, without me knowing for days or weeks. That simply wouldn’t happen. If I didn’t hear from them after one day, I’d be at their door. By day two, the police would be on speed dial. Because when it comes to the people I care about, I don’t take chances.
You know the saying: “It’s better to be safe than sorry.” That’s my mantra when it comes to my circle.
What’s My Point?
Check on your friends. Every day.
It doesn’t take much to shoot a quick text, make a phone call, or pop by just to say, “Hey, you good?” Those small gestures could make all the difference. You never know what someone is going through—or when your check-in could be the lifeline they need.
Let’s stop normalizing distant, inactive friendships and start prioritizing the people we love. Life is too fragile, too unpredictable, to wait.
So, go ahead: send that text, make that call. Be the friend you’d want someone to be for you.
đź‘‘ Sheba