"کمک کردن به دوستی که نیاز دارد آسان است اما وقت گذاشتن برای او همیشه مناسب نیست"

Helping a friend in need is generally straightforward. But actually carving out time for them? That's the tricky part. It's a lot easier to lend someone a hundred bucks than to drop everything and spend an entire afternoon helping them move or listening to them vent about their problems.

This saying probably stems from the timeless realization that while material support is tangible and often simple, giving our time requires genuine sacrifice. Think about it—money can be earned back, but once time is spent, it's gone forever. That makes time a much more precious commodity.

Take Jane and Laura, for instance. Jane's juggling a full-time job, kids, and night classes to finish her degree. Laura, her best friend since college, just lost her mother. Laura needs more than just a shoulder to cry on; she needs someone to sit with her, to listen and reminisce about old memories. Jane could easily send flowers or a sympathy card, but what Laura really needs is her presence. Jane decides to take a day off work, rearrange her schedule, and be there for Laura. It's a sacrifice, but that day's worth of comfort and support means the world to Laura.

Practical application? It's all about prioritizing and really understanding what your friends need. Sure, sending a quick text or making a small donation is helpful. But ask yourself—what would make the biggest difference to them? Sometimes, it's just our presence. Showing up, even when it's inconvenient, speaks volumes.

Imagine you're swamped with work and your friend calls, distraught over a breakup. You could give advice over the phone and go back to your to-do list. Or, you could drive over, bring their favorite ice cream, and watch terrible movies together. The latter requires more effort and time. It disrupts your evening, but it makes your friend feel valued and supported.

Advice? Start by assessing your priorities. Make a mental note (or even a physical one) of the people who matter most to you. When they need you, don't just think, "What can I give?" but also, "How can I be there?" Remember, it's the time you spend that often has the most impact. Be intentional with your schedule. If a friend is going through a tough time, maybe that project can wait a few hours or a day.

Here's another scenario: Think about a family gathering. Your grandmother is turning 80, and there’s a big family celebration planned. Sure, you could send a gift or a card, but taking the time to be there in person, listen to her stories, and show her that she's a priority? Priceless. These moments, though they require time and effort, build deeper connections and lasting memories.

So, next time you're faced with a friend's crisis or even a celebration, think beyond the material. Realize that your time—though it might seem inconvenient to give—is the most precious thing you can offer. It truly shows that you care.