Darcey Barrett writes on the importance of friendship during lockdown
As covid-19 continues to affect our lives, now more than ever we need good company. When loneliness becomes the new norm, you start to appreciate what you once had. For me, that’s my best friend, the girl who’s become my fourth sister.
With eight years of friendship under our belts, I’d like to think that we know each other back to front and top to bottom. In her words, she described our friendship as “supportive, solid and light-hearted,” and I have to say I would wholeheartedly agree with her. I can’t deny there have been a few ups and downs over the years, but she has always been there to support me and vice versa. It’s no secret, I’ve always struggled with how to live up to the expectations of my extended family and the pressure I put myself under destroys any confidence I may have. Throughout all of this, and the distance there was between us, Elle has always been there, been the reassuring voice on the end of the phone. Our bond seems unbreakable and I could not be more grateful.
Our last face to face catch up before lockdown was on a wet and windy Wednesday before New Year’s Eve. The day had been spent, browsing the sales and catching up, all to the sound of our classic laughter. The time we spend together is so special to me, just seeing her puts a smile on my face, no matter how late she may be. On this day even the rain couldn’t get our spirits down. As we walked round the bay by the harbour, our banter and laughter drew many weird and confused looks from fellow walkers. Together we are a weird pair but that’s what makes our friendship so perfect.
Even now, in this lockdown world, our friendship still thrives. With three hour phone calls and the constant stream of mems, we know we’re never without the other. No matter what is going on in our lives, whether that be positive COVID-19 tests, massive family dynamic changes or even just boy drama, this girl is always there for me and I for her.
I can’t pretend to know what the future holds for either of us but I do know that no matter what happens, Elle Lucas will always be by my side and I hers. I could not be more thankful for the memories we share and cannot wait for the many more we are yet to make.
