HOPE MATTERS
The words “love” and “friend” do a lot of heavy lifting in my conversations. I use them to describe both simple pleasures, like a good cup of coffee, and cherished relationships. Sometimes, I call someone a friend even if we only cross paths at monthly meetings. Other times, I use that word for someone who’s walked through life’s joys and challenges with me.
Research is plentiful on the positive impact of close, reliable relationships with family and friends. For example, a recent study found that people with close bonds during stressful situations had 37% lower cortisol levels, indicating reduced stress responses (University of California, 2024). The effect, they argued, was due to the calming influence of familiar voices and supportive people.
