Thomas Aquinas: 'There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship.'

There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship.

Thomas Aquinas once said, "There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship." This quote encapsulates the profound value and significance that true friendship holds in our lives. For in this complex and ever-changing world, where material possessions often take precedence, it is the connections we forge with others that truly enrich our existence. True friendship, free from ulterior motives or self-interest, serves as an invaluable source of support, camaraderie, and personal growth.At its core, Aquinas's message is a simple yet profound one. He recognizes that friendships based on genuine affection, trust, and shared values are indispensable. Material wealth and possessions may come and go, but true friendship endures. In a society driven by ambition and competition, the presence of authentic connections becomes a rare gem that must be treasured. True friends are not concerned with material benefits or what they can gain from the relationship; instead, their sole intention is to cultivate a bond based on mutual respect, unconditional acceptance, and shared experiences.In contrast to Aquinas's perspective, let us delve into the realm of existentialism, a philosophical concept that questions the existence and purpose of human beings. Influenced by thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche, existentialism raises concerns about the authenticity and meaning of life. For existentialists, the individual's existence precedes their essence, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility and freedom of choice.Within existential thought, the idea of friendship takes on a new dimension. While Aquinas highlights the intrinsic value of true friendship, existentialism challenges us to question the essence of friendship itself. If our existence precedes our essence, then our friendships are not predetermined or prescribed by fate but rather chosen and continuously redefined. This realization acknowledges the freedom and responsibility we possess in selecting and nurturing the friendships in our lives.Despite their differing philosophical perspectives, Aquinas and existentialism converge on the recognition of friendship as a fundamental aspect of the human experience. Both highlight the importance of sincere connections, but they differ in the underlying beliefs regarding the nature and purpose of those relationships. Aquinas emphasizes the significance of true friendship as an innate source of happiness and fulfillment, while existentialism emphasizes the individual's active role in shaping their own relationships, ensuring the authenticity and meaningfulness of those connections.Returning to Aquinas's quote, one could argue that the paradox of friendship lies in the simultaneous existence of both predetermined affection and our personal freedom to choose our friends. It is through this juxtaposition that the beauty of true friendship emerges; a delicate balance between fate and choice, a testament to the unpredictable yet extraordinary nature of human connection.In conclusion, Thomas Aquinas's quote, "There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship," encapsulates the intrinsic value and significance that true friendships hold in our lives. While Aquinas emphasizes the innate happiness and fulfillment that these connections bring, existentialism challenges us to reflect on our role in choosing and nurturing such friendships. Ultimately, both perspectives highlight the indispensable nature of authentic human connections, reminding us to cherish and cultivate the bonds that enrich our existence. So let us embrace the power of true friendship, for it is in these relationships that we find solace, support, and the true essence of what it means to be human.