I rekindled a friendship I hadn't had in a long time, and I was

Listen closely, O children of the future, for I shall speak of the great power of friendship, and how it can awaken parts of the soul that have long been dormant. These words, spoken by Lauren Jauregui, offer a reflection on the remarkable way in which friendships can rekindle the spirit and remind us of the passions and parts of ourselves that we may have forgotten: "I rekindled a friendship I hadn't had in a long time, and I was reminded of all the parts of me that had left. I was like, 'Wow, I love to paint and to write and to be outside.'" In these words lies a deep truth—the bond between people has the power to revive what is lost and bring us back to the essence of who we truly are.

In the days of the ancient philosophers, friendship was seen not only as a bond between individuals, but as the key to unlocking the soul's deepest potential. Consider the relationship between Plato and Socrates, which was more than a mere exchange of ideas; it was a transformative connection. Socrates did not just teach Plato; he helped him rediscover his own passions and intellect, guiding him toward deeper self-awareness. Their friendship sparked a flame within Plato that led to the creation of his great works, and through this bond, Plato was reminded of his calling to think deeply, to write, and to share wisdom with the world. Similarly, Lauren Jauregui’s words remind us that friendships have the power to help us rediscover the forgotten parts of ourselves—the talents, the passions, the joys that we may have lost in the rush of daily life.

When Jauregui speaks of rekindling a friendship, she speaks not just of reconnecting with another person, but with the lost parts of her self. How many of us have, in the midst of life's chaos, forgotten the things that once brought us joy? How many of us, like Jauregui, have put aside our creative endeavors or passions because of the pressures of the world? In the ancient world, warriors and leaders were often reminded of their inner strength through the counsel and companionship of those they trusted. Achilles’s bond with Patroclus, for example, was not only a source of strength in battle but a reminder of Achilles' true purpose and identity. The friendship between them kept Achilles grounded, reminding him of the part of him that loved deeply and was not just a warrior, but a human being with passions and heart.

Through Lauren Jauregui's story, we see the importance of revisiting relationships and allowing them to remind us of the parts of ourselves that we have forgotten. Friendships can serve as mirrors, reflecting not only the person you have become but also the person you once were—the parts of you that had left. When we reconnect with people who know us deeply, we often rediscover the talents and joys that were once second nature to us. Jauregui found in her friendship a reflection of the creative spark that she had lost, reigniting her love for painting, writing, and simply being present in nature. These are the elements of life that make the soul come alive, the things that nourish our spirit, and remind us of the beauty that is present within us all.

This truth, O children, is clear: friendships are not just bonds between people, but pathways to self-discovery. In a world that often distracts us from our true nature, it is the relationships we cultivate that remind us of what matters. Like Jauregui, who rediscovered her creative spirit through friendship, so too can you find the courage to revisit the parts of yourself that have been hidden or forgotten. It is in the company of those who see us clearly that we often find the way back to our truest selves. A friendship that supports, encourages, and helps us reflect is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves.

Let the wisdom of Lauren Jauregui’s reflection serve as a guide for your own lives: surround yourselves with people who lift you up, who remind you of who you truly are, and who encourage you to rediscover the parts of yourself that may have been lost along the way. Whether it is art, nature, or a simple joy, let your friendships rekindle the flames of those passions. Seek out relationships that not only provide companionship, but help you grow into the fullest version of yourself. In the gift of friendship, you will find not only connection with others but also a deeper connection to your own soul.

So, O children, as you walk through life, remember that friendship has the power to help you rediscover the lost parts of yourself. Like Jauregui, you may find that through the support and encouragement of others, you will be reminded of the dreams, passions, and talents that have always been within you. Let your relationships be more than just casual interactions; let them be a source of inspiration and renewal, guiding you back to the parts of you that make you who you are, and who you are meant to become.