Bonding time with Close Friends

Early in the morning, my long-distance close friends from Bohol messaged me that they were visiting their home in Hagnaya. They bought a house there three years ago, and from time to time, they visit to check on it. They have no caretakers hired, so over time, the grass grows around their house. That is why they always visit four times a year.

Every time they come to Hagnaya, they also visit my house. The good thing about them is that they are simple and flexible, even though their standard of living is higher than mine. This couple works in public service, the husband is a division supervisor, and his wife is a high school Teacher III in the Province of Bohol. Their two sons are seamen, and their only daughter is a manager of a pawnshop.

They simply enjoy whatever food we serve them. Sometimes, we prepare cooked bananas, popcorn, native chicken, or ducks. On their part, they also bring food. Our bonding time is always very enjoyable. Of course, singing is the most common part of our bonding, but conversation is the most important. This is one of the main reasons our closeness has grown.

You might wonder how we became this close. The answer is: before the year 2018, he was assigned to the Bogo Division as a supervisor for five years. We became acquainted because he noticed my talents as a table tennis trainer and chess trainer. He also heard about my wife’s achievements in school.

One time, he offered my wife an assignment that would last two years, and she accepted it without hesitation. Later on, I invited him to my house to enjoy some wine and karaoke. Surprisingly, he accepted my offer. Since then, our friendship began to grow. When he returned to Bohol Province as a supervisor in 2025, our friendship did not end.

Four times a year, we make time for bonding. For me, this is what real friendship is. No matter how far, no matter the difference in life status, friends are friends.