Thoughts of a Buddy/True Friend

by Irwin Lengel
(Florida)

Irwin and Dolly

When I think of the word buddy, I think back to my working years. As long as I can remember, I have been what one might call a loner. Never one to make what one might consider close friends – I have made one or two friends over my lifetime that I could in fact put in the category of “Buddy”.

Two such individuals come to mind – one never truly became classified in my eyes as a “buddy” although in his eyes which I only recently learned – we were supposedly good “buddies” during our high school years.

But the one individual that I would definitely class as a buddy of mine was an individual that became my boss many years ago. We kept in touch over the years even though he subsequently left the company. Later on in life, his position changed and I was able to hire him back with him becoming my subordinate. I was also able to reinstate all his benefits which truly came in handy when he retired many years later.

To me a buddy is one that is there for you no matter what the circumstances. They do not judge or look down on you or try to change you. They give advice and counsel but are still right there by your side should you decide not to take their advice and move forward with your own plans. A buddy is someone you forged a friendship with that lasts a lifetime. You would go to bat for that person at the drop of a hat and he or she would do the same for you should you need them to.

This is what comes to mind when I hear the word buddy. And believe me when I say that being a loner most of my adult life, it sure is a good feeling knowing that at least I had one true buddy in my lifetime.

Of course, I would be remiss if I wouldn’t add the caveat that I married my best buddy especially since this year, in a few months, she and I will be celebrating 57 years together as man and wife.

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