Top 5 Inspiring Quotes to Celebrate Best Friendship

"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy."

Marcel Proust, revered as one of the premier French authors of the early 20th century, depicted the life, society, and culture of his time through intricate detail. The quote, in question, is cited from his distinguished work 'In Search of Lost Time', a masterpiece which deeply examines involuntary memory. Proust often delves into human emotions and relationships, in this particular utterance, he is expressing his belief in the immense importance of cherishing moments of joy and the individuals who instigate them. It connotes that happiness, which is inherently transient, should be appreciated while it lasts. Offering gratitude to people who ignite happiness within us ultimately ushers an atmosphere of positivity and love, thus enhancing the beauty of human existence. This interpretation of happiness and appreciation in Proust's view reflects his broader philosophical outlook intertwined in his literary creations.

"No person is your friend who demands your silence, or denies your right to grow."

Alice Walker is an esteemed American author, having won the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1983. The quote in question is from her book 'The Color Purple', a seminal novel in American literature. This particular quote emphasizes Walker's belief in the importance of self-worth, personal growth, and the freedom to express oneself. It speaks on the topic of toxic relationships and suggests that a true friend should not inhibit your growth or suppress your voice. Walker, through this quote, advocates for the significance of personal freedom, implying that one must be allowed the right to evolve and speak freely in order to sustain a healthy, nurturing relationship. This idea is strongly conveyed throughout the novel, reinforcing Walker's opinion on the importance of individuality and self-expression.

"I don't need a friend who changes when I change and who nods when I nod; my shadow does that much better."

The author, Plutarch, was a Greek biographer and essayist, known primarily for his Parallel Lives and Moralia. His work is an important source of information about Greek and Roman cultures. Plutarch's unique trait among ancient writers is the interweaving of philosophical and biographical elements in his writings. This quoted line comes from the 'Moralia,' which is a collection of writings on various themes, showcasing his philosophical and ethical thinking. The quote echoes the essence of genuine friendship, challenging the notion and demanding more than mere agreement and shadowing. It highlights Plutarch's belief in the value of honest dissent and constructive criticism in a friendship rather than passive approval, gives friends the capacity to grow, change, and gain wisdom through their interactions. Truly, Plutarch's quote is a profound reflection of his complex understanding of personal relationships.

"Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend."

Albert Camus, a French philosopher, author, and journalist who won the Nobel Prize in Literature at the age of 44, is the author known in this context. His writings and ideas were influential in the development of absurdism philosophy. Camus' quote mentioned here comes from no particular book of his; it's more of a stand-alone quote widely attributed to him.

Camus, through this aphorism, expressed his opinion on the importance of companionship, equality, and mutual respect in relationships. It voices the idea that he neither wishes to be a follower nor a leader in a relationship, whether it involves friendship, love, or professional associations. The sentiment suggests a desire for partnerships where individuals stand together as equals, walking side by side through life's journey. The ideals conveyed are those of mutual understanding and camaraderie rather than blind following or leading, reflecting Camus' broader philosophical stances.

"Anyone can sympathize with the sufferings of a friend, but it requires a very fine nature to sympathize with a friend's success."

Oscar Wilde, the author of the quote, is an exceptionally talented 19th-century Irish writer. Renowned for his wit, humor, and literary style, Wilde's works range from plays to fictions and even poems. He is known for his flamboyant behavior and controversial issues, which left profound markings in the literary world. The quote derives from his play, 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' which has been acclaimed as one of his notable works. In the quote, Wilde significantly highlights the complexity of human emotions and relationships. It expresses the opinion that it is relatively easy to empathize with a friend's troubles as it is a common human experience. However, it takes a stronger, more genuine character to feel genuinely happy for a friend's achievements, without any hidden resentment or envy. This captures a unique aspect of human nature and relationships, offering a thought-provoking analysis of societal norms and attitudes towards success.