by Eric Chaet
Visiting with a friend, one always gains at least delight, which is essential nourishment. You may not realize that a person, or sometimes an animal — a stranger — is a friend. They behave in a friendly way, that’s all. It seems natural, because it is natural.
With those who choose to be your adversary — competing for dominance — you may be able to negotiate some mutual advantage — contract or less formal or conscious — but there is always a cost. It’s more common than friendship, it’s normal, it’s not natural — it’s the battles you must choose among, or avoid among — but not be terminated by.
///
