Post by robincragin on Sept 30, 2015 10:01:28 GMT -5
This is your Guide to Understanding the Symbols of Friendship
In todays fast-paced setting of work, kids, school or whatever the case may be it's easy to take friendship for granted, but every so often you need to remind those that you care about how much you appreciate them. If you're looking for inspiration then look no further than here...where you'll find some traditional and innovative ways of showing that you care. Here is where we will discuss some different ways to express your affection and devotion to your friends and also get some exciting and creative ideas for gifts that you can share with one another and even make together!
In the posts to come I will share with you several different ways you can show someone how much you care about them as a friend. Before I start, do you have any ways you show your friends you care about them?
#1 ~ Friendship Flowers
Flowers have long been considered to have hidden meanings; the Victorians developed the "language of flowers" and would give specific blooms to express deep love or friendship. For example: a chrysanthemum meant "You are a wonderful friend," whereas an iris meant "Your friendship means so much to me." Zinnias were sent to express sadness at absent friends and symbolize lasting affection. Both yellow and pink roses are also powerful symbols of friendship.
Bouquet Gifts:
You could give a bouquet of special flowers to a friend or plant some chrysanthemums together and watch them grow with your friendship.
Show your friend that you really care by offering them flowers. You could also give them seeds that you could plant together.
#2 ~ Friendship Hugs
A hug is a great way of expressing your feelings of friendship and affection because a hug can communicate more than mere words ever could. It has been said, "Even the briefest hug encapsulates more touch, more skin than 100 kisses."
'A Sense Of Belonging'
A hug is an intimate gesture that makes you feel particularly warm or connected to a person. It is an especially significant act of fellowship and affection when shared between close friends and shows just how much you care. The internet has seen the growth of the phenomenon of the "e-hug," a card that can be sent to a friend giving them a "virtual hug," bringing this time-honored tradition into the 21st century.
When you next see your friend offer them a friendship hug to make them feel extra special.
#3 ~ Friendship Rings
A ring's unbroken circle symbolizes the eternal quality and strength of true friendship. The Irish have the Claddagh ring, which has two hands clasping a heart with a crown positioned on top.
SYMBOL OF FRIENDSHIP
The ring has the motto "Let love and friendship reign forever," and is often exchanged between friends or used as an engagement ring.
One of the most famous examples of friendship occurred in the 19th century between Lord Nelson and Emma Hamilton. To symbolize their mutual devotion, they exchanged rings with clasped hands, representing solidarity.
Any ring can become a symbol of friendship if you give it to someone special. Remember to choose the right occasion to present it, such as a birthday celebration.
#4 ~ Friendship Sweets
In New England it has become traditional to exchange friendship sweets that contain some form of pineapple. This originated when a traveler returned to Massachusetts from the South Pacific and presented the town with a pineapple, which quickly became a symbol of friendship. In the Hindu festival of Diwali, people exchange hand-decorated sweets to show their loyal friendship.
PERSONAL SWEETS
Sweets can be a truly personal present to give to a friend, especially if you have made them yourself. You could make fondants, which are a combination of icing sugar, lemon juice, water and colored with food dye.
Create your own personal colored confectionery to express the sweetness of friendship.