My parents never really gave me the support I needed, but my friends have always stood by me through every hardship. People often say that family is forever, but that simply wasnt the case for me. It was my friends who were always there, encouraging me and lending a hand whenever I needed it most.
Our friendship began back in secondary school, where a group of lads and girls became close. When I said I wanted to join an art class, my parents refused to pay for the lessons. Even so, my friends stepped up straight away. They generously shared their sketchbooks and pencils with me, and Adam even convinced his talented sister, a designer, to give me lessons free of charge. As graduation approached, my parents once again weren’t interestedthey didnt want to spend any money. But my friends came through for me: they took on part-time jobs to help fund the event, and supported me with everything, from sewing my dress to doing my makeup and hair.
When I later decided to transfer to a different university, my parents opposed my choice yet again. They gave me an ultimatum: either I studied where they wanted, or I paid for everything myself. Thankfully, my friends backed me in that difficult period. I lived with them, and they supported me with the essentials while I saved whatever I could from my wages to cover my tuition.
All throughout my life, my friends have been there for me, helping in countless ways. They contributed towards my mortgage, came together to help renovate my house, and cared for me when I was ill. Meanwhile, my parents and brother never lifted a finger in any of these situations. Despite their claims that family should offer unwavering support, I havent spoken to them in four years, and honestly, I see no reason to anymore. My friends have proven themselves to be my true familyalways ready to help, offer a shoulder to lean on, and stand by me in hard times. My family now consists of six people: four friends from school and two from university, and Im grateful every day for having them in my life.
