Forget Ross — find your Monica
By: Paige Venable
As individuals, we are naturally inclined to yearn for a significant other and find our “other half.” In this desperate search for a romantic relationship, we often lose sight of something equally as important: platonic relationships.
Through the various friendships I’ve had in my life so far, I’ve learned the value of developing a purely platonic connection with someone. Although I’ve never been in a romantic relationship, I believe we, as human beings, shouldn’t discount the significance of friendships.
For as long as I can remember, my female friendships have been an essential part of my life. As I’ve grown and encountered different situations, my female friends have been the ones who stuck by my side and supported me when I needed it most.
Especially since starting my undergraduate career, I’ve met various girls whom I’m forever grateful to have supporting me, just as I support them. I think one of the main reasons I prioritize these friendships is that I truly believe the bonds you form with other women are so valuable. I’m at a point in my life where I’m still being exposed to the harsh realities that come with growing up and navigating life post-high school.
While I think having a romantic relationship with someone at this stage could be beneficial, I would argue that having platonic friendships is even more refreshing.
These four years of your life are ones you’ll never get back, and I think it’s critical to prioritize becoming the person you aspire to be. Not only that, but it’s also important to surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you and who will be by your side through thick and thin.
Take Blair and Serena from Gossip Girl — no matter how much drama they encountered throughout their chaotic New York City lives, their friendship survived it all. From high school drama to college scandals, their bond remained unbreakable.
There are also several other fictional examples of these bonds between women, such as Rachel and Monica from Friends and Marissa and Summer from The O.C. Bonds between women can truly last a lifetime, showing just how important platonic soulmates can be.
While these friendships between women are often simpler and refreshing, it’s also worth mentioning the idea of platonic relationships between women and men.
It has long been debated whether a girl and a guy can have a strong relationship without being romantically involved. Some people believe that, over time, one or both individuals are bound to catch feelings, tarnishing the friendship that once existed. While this could lead to a successful romantic relationship if the feelings are mutual, some aren’t so lucky.
Personally, I can see both sides of this argument. However, I would argue that it definitely depends on the situation, as each is unique in its own way. No two connections between a girl and a guy are exactly the same.
That said, I don’t think women and men should be afraid of developing a close blond with the opposite gender. If you genuinely connect with someone on a purely platonic level, I think that’s really special.
Whenever this topic comes up, my mind immediately goes to the best fictional platonic relationship to exist: Haley and Lucas from One Tree Hill. When I watched this show, I never once doubted that their friendship would remain purely platonic. Given that both characters shared a significant amount of screentime, you might think they’d eventually catch feelings for each other. Yet, their friendship seemed so authentic and natural that it would have been completely unexpected if it ever became romantic.
They were always there for each other through the highs and lows, without any romantic involvement. That’s why I think it’s important not to be afraid of close relationships with the opposite gender.
All in all, I think platonic relationships of all types are truly special and shouldn’t be viewed as inferior just because they lack a romantic aspect. Strong friendships and unbreakable bonds are part of what makes connections with others so meaningful.
Instead of hopelessly searching for your “other half,” take the time to appreciate the friendships you currently have — and don’t take them for granted. After all, I really don’t think your future husband is in Gainesville, Florida…
Paige Venable is a second-year finance major at the University of Florida and an online writer for Rowdy Magazine. In her free time, she enjoys watching her favorite television shows, online shopping, and going on walks.
Comments