Best Buddies

CEBU, Philippines - Who's your best friend?

Last Saturday, I attended my best friend's wedding. I had to fly to my hometown for the occasion. I was one of her maids-of-honor and the wedding planner at the same time that's why I needed to be there.

While she walked down the aisle, our childhood memories flashed back and I was reminded of the fun times we had. We've been friends for 19 years and I can't help but cry.

Our friendship is not perfect. We also had our share of dis-agreements but it did not make us hate each other. Instead it made our friendship stronger because in the process, we learned to forgive each other and accept our differences.

So what's your "best friend" story?

Let me share with you the story of Summer and Cosette.

Nine-year-old Summer is a wide-eyed, curly haired dog lover. She always takes her two beagles, Maddie and Sophie, for a walk around the village after school. Ten-year-old Cosette, on the other hand, is a half-Chinese-half Filipino ballet dancer who is more fascinated with hamsters and rabbits. Although the two have different pet preferences, they share a lot of common interests such as their love for the outdoors, books and meatballs.

One day, their friendship was tested.

Summer asked Cosette if she could take the puppies for a stroll. Cosette obliged.

When Cosette and the puppies reached the fifth block from where Summer's house is located, Cosette's right shoe lace loosened. She pulled the dogs towards the fence to tie their leashes around it so she could free her hands. While bending to tighten her shoe lace, Sophie's leash loosened. She ran off and got hit by a car. Cosette's heart sank. She rushed towards Sophie and found her dead. She was deeply worried. Sophie was Summer's favorite dog since it was given by Summer's mom before she died of cancer.

When Summer knew about this, she went home and saw Cosette crying at the lawn. Summer also cried and said hurtful words to Cosette, of how irresponsible and careless she was. Cosette said sorry but Summer was too mad at her and vowed not to see her again.

After two weeks, Cosette approached Summer and said sorry again. This time, Summer was ready to forgive her.

That test of friendship was not the only test they had to face. Cosette and Summer are still friends to this day. They now have their own families but they make it a point that they bond together just like before.

Let's treasure our friends, especially our best friends. They are like our sisters and brothers whom we can share our problems with. They can also help us in times of need. If your best friend messes up, always listen and be ready to forgive in order to save the friendship.

Share your "best friend" stories. Send them to [email protected]. Please include a photo/s of your best friend. We might feature your story in Kidstuff.