Show me a genuine case of platonic friendship, and I shall show

Hearken, O seekers of wisdom, to the wry yet profound observation of Austin O’Malley, who declares: “Show me a genuine case of platonic friendship, and I shall show you two old or homely faces.” In these words lies a meditation on the enduring nature of friendship, a bond unshaken by the illusions of beauty, youth, or fleeting passion. True companionship is rarely celebrated with flamboyance; it grows quietly, nurtured by shared experience, loyalty, and the subtle weaving of trust over time.

The origin of this insight springs from the observation of human nature and the passage of years. O’Malley reminds us that platonic friendship—friendship untainted by desire, ambition, or vanity—is often found where appearances matter little, and where the souls of two companions have grown together through mutual understanding and respect. It is a wisdom that echoes the teachings of the ancients: the value of a companion lies not in outward beauty or fleeting charm, but in steadfastness, sincerity, and shared virtue.

Consider the tale of Cicero and Atticus, whose friendship endured decades of political turbulence, exile, and personal peril. Neither the physical allure nor the social standing of either man defined their bond. What bound them was loyalty, empathy, and the cultivation of shared intellect and moral purpose. In Cicero and Atticus, we see the living truth of O’Malley’s words: the deepest friendships often manifest in hearts that have weathered time and circumstance, rather than in the outwardly celebrated.

The essence of this teaching lies in the recognition that beauty fades, youth wanes, and circumstance shifts, but the true measure of friendship endures. Platonic bonds—rooted in respect, loyalty, and understanding—are forged over years of shared experience and honest engagement. They are not won by charm or superficiality, but by the consistent labor of trust, counsel, and compassion. Thus, appearances are but a veil; the soul’s alignment is what makes companionship enduring.

Even in more recent history, one finds evidence of this truth. The enduring friendship of Emily Dickinson and Susan Gilbert was built not upon social admiration or fleeting attraction, but upon shared intellect, literary engagement, and mutual understanding. Though they were neither outwardly celebrated for beauty nor flaunted in public life, their companionship endured, offering support, counsel, and the quiet joys of genuine friendship. It is in these subtle bonds that the richest human connections reside.

O’Malley’s insight also warns against the illusions of superficial companionship. Many seek validation, charm, or prestige in choosing friends, yet the heart that seeks depth looks beyond outward appearance. True platonic friendship is a refuge, a sanctuary where one may share thoughts, fears, and joys without pretense. It thrives in mutual respect and understanding, unshaken by the transience of youth, fortune, or societal praise.

Practical guidance flows naturally from this teaching: cultivate friends not for display, charm, or status, but for sincerity, trust, and the ability to walk together through life’s trials. Value those whose hearts are steadfast, whose counsel is wise, and whose loyalty is unwavering. Recognize that the most enduring friendships are often quiet, unassuming, and deeply nourishing, even if they escape public notice.

Thus, remember the wisdom of Austin O’Malley: genuine platonic friendship may not be adorned in beauty or youth, but it is a treasure that endures across years and trials. Seek companions whose souls resonate with yours, honor loyalty and understanding above outward charm, and invest in bonds that grow richer with time. In these quiet, unassuming connections lies the truest wealth of the human heart, a testament to the enduring power of shared life, trust, and love untainted by desire.

If you wish, I can also craft a short, lyrical version suitable for narration, emphasizing the emotional depth and timeless endurance of platonic friendship as described by O’Malley. Do you want me to do that?