A few years ago, calling friends together was very simple.
One message like, “Bro, come over this evening,” was enough. No expensive food, no special planning, no fancy setup. Just a few cups of tea, random conversations, laughter, and peace of mind.
But now, things feel different.
These days, if you want your friends to gather, you almost need to arrange a party first. Barbecue, chicken tikka, cold drinks, and a proper setup — only then people start saying, “Yeah bro, we’ll come.” Otherwise, everyone already has a new excuse ready.
Tonight, while the chicken was slowly cooking over the hot charcoal and smoke was rising into the air, a strange thought came to my mind.
Have friendships really become this formal?
Or are we all just so tired from life that we have forgotten how to meet without a reason?
As the barbecue kept grilling, everyone slowly started enjoying the moment. Someone was taking pictures, someone was laughing loudly, and someone was repeating old memories for the hundredth time. For a few hours, life actually felt simple again.
Honestly, happiness does not always come from expensive things. Sometimes, a few close friends, cool night air, burning charcoal, and simple barbecue are enough to heal the heart.
But the sad part is that nowadays even these moments need planning and spending.
In the past, people valued the person.
Now, many people value the environment more.
If the gathering looks exciting, they come. Otherwise, most conversations end with, “Maybe next time.”
Still, one truth has not changed.
Real friends never come because of food.
They come because of sincerity.
They do not need luxury, expensive arrangements, or perfect plans. They simply want your company.
Tonight’s small barbecue gathering was not something extraordinary, but it reminded me of one important thing:
The real beauty of life hides inside these small moments.
Moments where smoke rises from the charcoal, but peace quietly settles inside the heart.
