Defining Companionship

Whether it be romantic or platonic, companionship is a whirlwind experience that promotes a sense of warmth, kindness, and intimacy. The radiance of companionship is noticeable when we encounter a group of close friends, partnerships, boyfriends and girlfriends of the same or opposite sex, or spouses where an immediate and observable reliance on trust appears to be at the foundation of these relationships. 

It instills a sense of adoration in anyone who is witness to this spectacle. Companionship helps to foster happiness, joy, accountability, and attachment. It is a connection of significant depth that validates one's identity. 

Companionship involves mutual wooing as opposed to a similar motive, seduction. To woo means to persevere onward in the face of challenge or great difficulty for the purposes of enchantment. In the context of building relations, it is an action that positions oneself underneath another so that one can lift their companion to elevated ground, winning them over in the end. 

In comparison, when one seduces, they attempt to entice someone to engage with them, for the most part, selfish purposes. It is usually an action completed by one person at a time. I am by no means disregarding or condemning seduction; however, it's worth mentioning that it alone cannot lead to companionship. 

It takes a level of persistence and passion for wanting to invigorate someone else that extends far beyond the motivation of lust. It can but does not always include sex. It extends much further beyond physical contact. Companionship involves all parties viewing and providing toward another's self-worth. 

In addition, companionship means continual investment. It can involve misunderstanding and lead to discomforting conversations. There is an immense responsibility that accompanies these types of relationships. 

No sense or willingness to persevere is present when recognizing one's duty in their contribution is absent. All good companionships are the product of intense work. 

This work is untaken by simultaneously strengthening the belief in oneself, so you may bring the best you have to offer, as well as belief and encouragement in another. Love is not something that we share with ease as it usually accompanies some level of challenge, which is a big part of why it feels so rewarding when we've found it. 

At the end of the day, our companions are our accomplishments, and we are accomplishments to our companions. We are supremely proud of these relationships and solidify why we engage with anyone outside of ourselves. 

Our companions add meaning to our stories, and we should be confident that we provide definition to theirs.