As I left secondary school I fell out with a lot of my friends. People I’d known for years, created memories with and spent my life around. So, during the holidays before, I isolated myself from them and just looked forward to the years to come – college was on the horizon. However, the grass wasn’t as green as I thought. It’s scary going from a school of a few hundred to a college of over a thousand people, when in reality you can speak to 3 people. At the time as well, I was a much shyer version of myself. I wouldn’t dare approach anyone! 3 days went by and I had a choice. Either embrace the next 2 (that actually turned out to be 3) years of my life alone or do something bold. I walked up to a young chap named Tom, who was a friend of a friend. We’d spoken maybe a handful of times before. We got chatting, and I became a barnacle to his group of friends. I just kept hanging on no matter how awkward some conversations were, and thanks to their patience I slowly started to make friends. I’d get invited to birthday ‘parties’ and started seeing them more and more. One weekend we were due to go to Paintball for my (new) friend Rob’s birthday. Although when we arrived the site had closed for the day due to an unforeseen incident! Well shit. There goes out plans! We looked and looked, and luckily found an alternative for the next day. Something very similar called Airsoft. The next day we arrived at the site for a day’s Airsofting, and this to this date is one of the most MONUMENTAL days of my ENTIRE LIFE. We had a great day, and on the spot decided to go again. Which we did, and that’s where the surprise hit me… My best friend from when I was around 5 or 6 years old, who I’d been through thick and thin with, was there. We hadn’t really spoke since the summer before college. I spent the day with Henry, and my new friends – it was awesome.
I’d LOVE you to send a message. Yes, right now, not later! To one person who you appreciate. Thank them and show your appreciation – I can be certain it’ll make their day.
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AuthorLiam Sibley Archives
April 2020
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