They say true friends can be counted on one hand. But can even those rare relationships withstand the test of time? In an era marked by mobility, growing individualism, and hyper-digital lifestyles, the question of friendship durability is more relevant than ever.

Friendship Tested by Time by Léwis Verdun, published in the FIVE MINUTES collection, addresses this issue with both clarity and warmth. Building on its insights, this article explores the mechanisms that shape lasting friendships, the modern challenges they face, and the keys to preserving them.

Friendship: An Essential Yet Vulnerable Bond

Unlike romantic or family relationships, friendship relies on mutual and voluntary choice. It often grows from shared experiences, deep affinity, or common values. Yet even these cherished bonds can erode over time, often without notice.

Psychological studies show that friendship plays a critical role in mental health, well-being, and longevity. But it’s also more fragile, as it carries fewer explicit obligations.

Geographic distance, lifestyle changes, life transitions (marriage, parenthood, relocation, career shifts), and unresolved misunderstandings can all silently fracture friendships.

The Invisible Pillars of Enduring Friendship

To last over time, a friendship must rest on several essential foundations:

Trust – Without it, depth cannot develop. Trust is the basis for vulnerability, authenticity, and mutual support.

Reciprocity – An unbalanced friendship where one always gives and the other always takes tends to wither.

Authentic communication – Sharing emotions, setting boundaries, expressing doubts—these strengthen the connection.

Unconditional support – True friends show up not just in joyful moments, but in hardships as well.

Intentionality – Contrary to popular belief, friendship doesn’t maintain itself. It requires time, attention, and a deliberate commitment to nurture.

Friendship in the Digital Age

Social media has dramatically reshaped our perception of friendship. It allows us to stay in touch and share moments—but can also create the illusion of closeness. Likes and comments often replace deeper exchange.

Digital life may also bring relational overload: more contacts, fewer meaningful connections.

True friendship requires quality time, sincere conversation, and real presence—all hard to maintain when interactions are fragmented or filtered through screens.

How to Preserve Friendship in a Fast-Paced World

Cultivating enduring friendships in today’s world is an intentional act. Here are practical ways to do so:

Schedule regular check-ins
Whether by call or in-person, set a recurring time to reconnect.

Express gratitude
Let your friends know they matter—gratitude fosters emotional closeness.

Be flexible
Accept temporary silence or distance without jumping to conclusions.

Talk through conflicts
Instead of letting distance grow, choose honest conversation to rebuild trust.

Focus on fewer but deeper bonds
Three deep friendships are worth more than thirty superficial ones.

Quick Guide: Signs of a Friendship Worth Keeping

Ask yourself:

  • Do you feel energized after connecting with this person?

  • Can you be your true self around them?

  • Does the relationship evolve as you both grow?

  • Is there mutual loyalty—even across distances?

  • Have you faced key life moments together?

If these apply, don’t wait for the “perfect time.” Reach out—your friendship is worth it.

A Book to Redefine the Power of Friendship

In a world where friendship often gets lost in notifications and digital noise, Friendship Tested by Time by Léwis Verdun is a refreshing and meaningful read.

In under 5 minutes, this book delivers deep insights into the emotional, psychological, and practical factors that make or break a friendship. A small read with a big impact.

Discover Friendship Tested by Time now on Five Minutes!