River stones get smooth from bumping into each other for years. Friends sand down each other’s edges too.

Long friendships change both people in ways nobody intends. Years of small collisions, mild annoyances and conversations you did not enjoy at the time take the sharpest corners off you, and you end up easier to be around because people who love you kept meeting the same edges. It does not happen in one dramatic moment. It happens from being in the water together.

Work out which edge of yours your closest friends have worn down, and thank one of them for it. Then ask what you are smoothing in them, and whether you are doing it kindly or just wearing them out.