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Friends - They are like air bubbles on water, hastening to flow together. History tells of Orestes and Pylades, Damon and Pythias, but why should not we put to shame those old reserved worthies by a community of such? Constantly, as it were through a remote skylight, I have glimpses of a serene friendship-land, and know the better why brooks murmur and violets grow. This conjunction of souls, like waves which met and break, subsides also backward over things, and gives all a fresh aspect. I would live henceforth with some gentle soul such a life as may be conceived, double for variety, single for harmony - two, only that we might admire at our oneness - one, because indivisible. Such community to be a pledge of holy living. How could aught unworthy be admitted into our society? To listen with one ear to each summer sound, to behold with one eye each summer scene, our visual rays so to meet and mingle with the object as to be one bent and doubled; with two tongues to be wearied, and thought to spring ceaselessly from a double fountain.

Henry David Thoreau#16

PsychologyCommunityRelationshipsSocialConnectionFriendshipHarmony

About this quote

What does it mean?
Friendship is a unifying, harmonious force that enriches life, akin to bubbles merging and waves breaking together.
In plain terms
Friendship blends souls into a harmonious whole.
What can you take from it?
Seek friendships that bring harmony and mutual growth.

Where it applies

  • making new friends
  • strengthening existing ties
  • team building

Putting it to work

  • spend quality time together
  • listen actively

Questions to consider

  • What qualities make a friendship harmonious for you?
  • How do you maintain balance in close relationships?

Another view

Not all friendships are healthy; some may be draining.

More from Henry David Thoreau

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  3. Sphere Music - Some sounds seem to reverberate along the plain, and then settle to earth again like dust; such are Noise, Discord, Jargon. But such only as spr…

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