We cherish and feel a profound sense of nostalgia for the friendships cultivated during our elementary, middle and high school days, along with the memories linked to our hometown alma mater. This sentiment often outweighs the significance we attribute to our participation in alumni association gatherings of universities or even prestigious institutions abroad that we attended.
The tale of the enduring friendship between the French painters Edouard Manet and Claude Monet exemplifies their deep bond. Beyond their shared passion for art, their relationship was marked by mutual admiration and support. This remarkable friendship blossomed in 19th-century France, where the two luminaries of the Impressionist movement, found inspiration within each other's work. Manet's innovative expression techniques, juxtaposing light and dark, resonated deeply with Monet. Even after Manet's passing, Monet's unwavering gratitude was evident as he championed the preservation of his friend's legacy.
When Manet's pivotal nude painting "Olympia," faced the prospect of leaving France, Monet spearheaded a fundraising campaign to acquire and donate the artwork, which is currently housed in the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, ensuring his friend's enduring legacy. The inspiring stories of Manet and Monet illustrate the enduring power of true friendship, serving as a testament to the profound impact of genuine companionship.
Despite the challenges and changes that life brings, genuine friends recognize and value each other's worth. They offer unwavering support, express gratitude, and preserve each other's legacies. While new experiences may lead to forging new connections, existing friendships remain resilient, standing the test of time and distance.
As we navigate the twists and turns of life, may we cherish the bonds of friendship, both old and new. Let us draw inspiration from the deep friendship of Manet and Monet, embracing the meaningful connections that enrich our lives and bring us joy, support, and understanding.
The enduring Korea-U.S. alliance, spanning over seven decades since the Korean War, is significant in global geopolitics. Reflecting on former U.S. Representative Henry John Hyde's poignant words on his 2006 visit to the commanding statue of the late U.S. Army General Douglas MacArthur at Freedom Park in Incheon underscores the enduring value of old friendships. Hyde’s sentiment, encapsulated in the analogy of old friends being akin to gold, resonates deeply with the essence of enduring alliances.
In emphasizing the importance of cherishing old friendships amidst the allure of novelty, Hyde's remarks evoke a timeless truth. While new acquaintances may sparkle like silver, old friendships possess an unparalleled richness like gold. General MacArthur's monumental contributions during the Korean War serve as a testament to the unwavering strength and reliability of such enduring alliances.
This reflection prompts a broader consideration of human nature's inclination towards novelty and change, juxtaposed with the timeless comfort and stability offered by longstanding relationships.
In the dynamic landscape of international relations, where alliances may shift and geopolitical dynamics evolve. The steadfastness of old friendships serves as a beacon of constancy and reassurance. Thus, Hyde's words resonate not only with the historical significance of the Korea-U.S. alliance but also with the enduring value of nurturing and preserving longstanding bonds.
Hyde passed away in November 2007 at the age of 83. Korea bid farewell to an esteemed and cherished friend. Although it has been nearly two decades since Hyde's final visit to Korea, he remains esteemed as a true gentleman and is held in high regard by both adversaries and allies alike.
As we navigate the complexities of an ever-changing world, let's heed the wisdom captured in Hyde's remarks, cherishing the gold of old friendships amidst the silver allure of the new. Therefore, let us nurture and preserve longstanding bonds amidst the ever-changing landscape of our lives. The solidity of old friendships is forged through enduring countless hardships together.
Choe Chong-dae (choecd@naver.com) is a guest columnist of The Korea Times. He is president of Dae-kwang International Co., and founding director of the Korean-Swedish Association.
Embracing value of old friendships
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21.05.2024
We cherish and feel a profound sense of nostalgia for the friendships cultivated during our elementary, middle and high school days, along with the memories linked to our hometown alma mater. This sentiment often outweighs the significance we attribute to our participation in alumni association gatherings of universities or even prestigious institutions abroad that we attended.
The tale of the enduring friendship between the French painters Edouard Manet and Claude Monet exemplifies their deep bond. Beyond their shared passion for art, their relationship was marked by mutual admiration and support. This remarkable friendship blossomed in 19th-century France, where the two luminaries of the Impressionist movement, found inspiration within each other's work. Manet's innovative expression techniques, juxtaposing light and dark, resonated deeply with Monet. Even after Manet's passing, Monet's unwavering gratitude was evident as he championed the preservation of his friend's legacy.
When Manet's pivotal nude painting "Olympia," faced the prospect of leaving France, Monet........
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