There was a time when I thought good friendship meant seeing each other often and making plans far in advance. Adult life has made that definition difficult to maintain.
Now friendship happens in the gaps. A photo of a terrible sandwich. A voice note recorded while walking home. A message that says I have no useful advice but I am here.
These little exchanges do not replace time together. They keep the door open until time appears.
I am grateful for the people who understand that a late reply is not the same thing as a disappearing act.