Keeping Childhood Friends Forever

I recently sent a Birthday card to a childhood friend. It said:
"Old friends are like old recliners,
We're comfortable, a little worn, and we go Waaaay back!
Happy Birthday to a true friend!"

Both my husband and I grew up in Bayonne, New Jersey. We had wonderful childhoods filled with meaningful friendships with people we still see 75 years later!

I started to think about what elements are necessary to maintain lasting childhood friendships. This is what my research turned up:

1. Childhood friendships have a shared history. Friends witnessed and experienced significant life moments.

2. When children live in close proximity to each other, they have opportunities to constantly interact and build strong bonds.

3. Childhood friendships are often based on shared activities and hobbies, which continue into adulthood.

4. Childhood friends know each other at their most authentic selves, accepting flaws and quirks.

5. Strong childhood friendships withstand life changes and adapt to evolving situations, even when geographically separated.

6. Childhood friends are important enough to include with new friendships throughout the years.

7. Maintaining childhood friendships takes effort. Someone has to assure to keep in touch.

Childhood friendships are so worth the effort!