A hedge between keeps friendship green

A hedge between keeps friendship green

The proverb "A hedge between keeps friendship green" is a timeless reminder of the importance of boundaries in maintaining healthy relationships. Just as a physical hedge serves as a barrier between two properties, setting boundaries in friendships can help protect the relationship from misunderstandings, conflicts, and overstepping of boundaries.

In the context of friendships, having boundaries means being clear about what is acceptable and what is not, and communicating these boundaries effectively to your friends. This can include setting limits on how much time you spend together, what topics are off-limits for discussion, and what behaviors are unacceptable. By establishing these boundaries early on in a friendship, you can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts from arising in the future.

Having boundaries in friendships also means respecting the boundaries of others. It is important to recognize that everyone has their own comfort levels and limits, and it is essential to respect these boundaries in order to maintain a healthy and respectful relationship. By respecting the boundaries of your friends, you show that you value and care for them, which can strengthen the bond between you.

Additionally, having boundaries in friendships can help prevent over-dependence and codependency. When boundaries are not clearly defined, it can be easy for one person to become overly reliant on the other for emotional support, validation, or companionship. This can lead to feelings of resentment, imbalance, and ultimately, the deterioration of the friendship. By setting boundaries and maintaining a healthy level of independence within the friendship, both parties can feel respected and valued, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling relationship.