1 Simple Way to Mend a Broken Friendship

How to make things good with a sincere apology

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Recently, I had a falling out with a close friend. In hindsight, it was just a big misunderstanding. A loved one was in the hospital, and I expected my friend to be there for emotional support. They, however, assumed I needed space and didn’t want to bother me.

I was deeply hurt.

Is it just me, or isn’t friendship really about being there when you need them the most? My way to show support is by being there for my friends and loved ones through regular check-ins and offering them a safe space to share their thoughts.

Each individual may have their own way of coping with a crisis. Some may need space while others may need someone to lean on. I belong to the latter, and feel nothing can beat the power of a warm hug or comforting words.

Anyway, I let my friend know how I felt. To my surprise, I realized part of the fault was mine for not communicating that I needed their presence, not space. I quickly apologized for being harsh.

I also tried to explain why I reacted that way — not to excuse it but to explain what triggered my outburst. Maybe it was wrong to expect them to call me during a crisis, but I don’t think so when it comes to close friendships. I felt that owning my…