Companionship probably means something different to everyone. It involves more than just someone being there; it is about wanting that person to be there, enjoying their company and developing a relationship that comes naturally to both of you.

Many times, parents of students who did not have, or make friends easily, or were alone most of the time would ask the teacher if they could find companions/friends for them. I always told them that I would plant the seed but the students had to make it grow.  

According to Home Instead Blog, companionship is extremely important for both your mental and physical wellbeing. Having good company around should make you feel relaxed, comfortable and keep your mind positively engaged. http://www.homeinstead.com.au

Other mental benefits of companionship are to:

• Avoid social isolation
• Increase a sense of purpose
• Stimulate positive thoughts and interactions
• Engage in memory exercises such as reminiscing

I used to criticize my wife and her siblings for constantly talking about the same childhood adventures every time they got together. I knew them verbatim. Now I know why. I was jealous. I never had that experience as a child. I grew up as an only child, alone. I have since asked them for forgiveness. I was the one short-changed.

Some of the physical benefits of companionship are to:

• Participate in enjoyable physical activities together such as a walk in the park or down the street
• Identify unhealthy habits
• Assist with appointments or doctors’ visits
• Support each other in achieving their goals

Today we try to find companionship through media. Not saying that it never works, but the statistics are not very favorable. It takes a lot of work in the best circumstances. Companionship is important at all stages of life, but more so as you get older.

Ecclesiastes 4 says, “It’s better to have a partner than go it alone. Share the work, share the wealth. If one falls down, the other helps, but if there’s no one to help, tough! Two in a bed warm each other. Alone, you shiver all night. By yourself you’re unprotected. With a friend you can face the worst.

Can you round up a third? A three-stranded rope isn’t easily snapped” The Message Bible.