One of my college friends came to town to visit. We took them to Mt. Washington for a view of the city and the science center. We had lunch and dinner at two different Chinese restarants since both of us are pretty bad at cooking. We had a good time together. At dinner, he wanted to pay for it so I went to the waiter behind his back and paid for the meal. Someone did the same to me 10 years ago. We went to New Jersey to see my old colleagues at that time. I thought I was supposed to pay for the lunch but found out later that the bill had already been paid. I still remember that trip. I remembered I was a little disappointed that I didn't get to talk much to the person I really came to see. Anyway, we went back to my house after dinner and they stayed there for the night. I thought about my past friendships and how they have changed. The last time I saw him was 7 years ago. I had another friend who was my colleague. I was a lot closer to my colleague than to my college friend. But 7 years later, the opposite is true. The friendship with my colleague withered while the friendship with my college friend remained the same. I read somewhere that there are 3 types of friendships: utility, pleasure or goodness. I have some friends of the first type. They are mostly parents of my son's playmates. They are useful because of the playdates. I have had some of the second type. My former colleague was one. We had a great time together. But we didn't share much personal thoughts together. My friendship with my college friend is more of the third type. I still remember the long talk we had when we were in college. I don't remember the content anymore but still remember the connection I felt at the time. I identify with him somewhat. That's why I wish him all the best from the bottom of my heart. We may not agree on everything. But that is a good thing. It opens your eyes to a different perspective on things. I used the word "somewhat" because there are still things I don't identify with. That's why there are a lot of things I can't talk to him about. I wish I had a friend I identify with wholly, whom I can talk to about anything. I have a sense I will find that friend soon.
