On Friendship

I’m sorry Epictetus, but I suppose we’ll have to agree to disagree. On the topic of friendship I’d have to say I agree with Aristotle. See, I was looking through some old papers on my hard drive and I stumble across an assignment I did in a philosophy class a while back.

It said that Epictetus held the notion that close attachments, namely friendships, were a danger and that we shouldn’t have them. He felt that inevitably, no matter how loving a relationship may be, it eventually ends. Therefore, investing so much time and effort into building these relationships, which are temporary and ultimately out of one’s control, is foolish. Aristotle, on the other hand, felt that these relationships were vital to having a fulfilling life. He argued that reaching this level of friendship with others brings one closer to attaining happiness and to living the good life.

There is no doubt that sometimes I side with Epictetus, especially when I get am let down by a close friend, or at least somebody I thought was close. In the end though, I would have to say I agree with Aristotle. One thing I pride myself in is the friendships I have made throughout the years. The outpouring of support that my friends have shown me in the days leading up to this trip has been amazing and it affirmed my belief that Aristotle is right. So this serves as a good place and time to say a BIG THANK YOU to all those who have given their loving support, words of wisdom, money/gifts, and their prayers.

As the trip begins I have had to leave some of my closest friends behind, luckily I have two of my best friends with me – Chris and Mike. Aristotle would be so proud.