There are those who argue that friendships formed online lack authenticity, claiming that true friendship requires face-to-face interaction. However, I firmly believe that the depth of a relationship transcends physical distance. If someone is your friend, their location is irrelevant.
This is why I find it frustrating when people dismiss online friendships as trivial. Over the years, I’ve built countless meaningful connections through social media, and these relationships hold immense value in my life. I know that when I’m in need, they will always be there for me.
I still remember the first online friend I made. Back in my tween years, AOL chat rooms were the go-to for social interaction. I spent hours chatting about my favorite boy bands, and even today, fandoms remain a great way to connect with others. While I’ve made many friends in those chat rooms, one special friend has lasted through the years. We met when we were both 13 and, after finally meeting in person in our late 20s, we’ve supported each other through high school, college, relationships, and motherhood.
When I was younger, my parents worried about me making friends online. Now, it’s where the majority of my friendships thrive. As life evolves, so do friendships, and I’ve noticed that adult friendships can be a bit more complicated, especially when you live close to each other but struggle to meet up. It’s easy to say “let’s hang out” without ever actually following through.
In contrast, online friendships feel more flexible. You may not connect every day, but the distance doesn’t create that same sense of disconnect. These friends are just a message away, making them feel much more reliable.
As a woman of color navigating predominantly white social circles, I sometimes find myself needing support from my online friends. Occasionally, comments I make can be misinterpreted, and while I’m open to addressing those misunderstandings, my friends often step in to shield me from unnecessary emotional labor. They allow me to take a breath and redirect my energy.
Recently, I faced a challenging situation where I really needed my online friends’ support. I had inadvertently stirred up tension with former friends I met online, and before I knew it, the situation escalated quickly. In the midst of this chaos, my online friends rallied to my aid, demonstrating their loyalty and support in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
The overwhelming response was astonishing. Even though most of these friends are people I’ve never met in real life, they jumped in to help when I needed it most. Instead of getting caught up in the drama, I was able to take a step back while they dealt with the negativity on my behalf. I hadn’t even asked them to intervene; they simply recognized my distress and chose to lighten my load. It’s reassuring to know that there are people out there willing to stand by you, even in the digital realm.
Building friendships online can be a gamble. You might think you know someone based on their social media presence, but people can surprise you, whether with kindness or selfishness. Over the past six years, I’ve found my community through social media. These are the people who share my interests and values, forming deeper connections that make our friendships stronger.
These friends are always there when I need them, often without me even having to say anything. It’s as if they have an innate ability to sense when I could use a helping hand.
In the whirlwind of raising children and managing busy lives, it’s easy to feel isolated. Life gets hectic, and maintaining friendships can sometimes fall by the wayside. However, my online friends consistently prove that these relationships should not be underestimated. Whether I need a listening ear for parenting struggles or support against negativity, they are just a message away.
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In summary, while some may dismiss online friendships, they can be profound and supportive. These connections bring a sense of community and belonging, proving that friendship knows no boundaries.