Andrew McCarthy spends more of his time now writing books than acting these days, and that is not a bad thing.
His latest book, Who Needs Friends: An Unscientific Examination of Male Friendship Across America, is inspired by something his son, Sam, said to him.
The Brat Packer told Drew Barrymore on her daytime talk show that one night he was talking with his son, and the younger McCarthy was telling a story about one of his friends. Then, when he was done, he said to his dad, “You don’t really have any friends. Do you?”
The actor then explained that he does have friends, but he just doesn’t see them because they don’t live near him anymore, but he knows that they are there. So, he got in the car and drove around the country on the backroads, catching up with old friends and making new ones along the way.
What he discovered is that men don’t have that bond of friendship of being there all the time. And he also realized that there is a loneliness that men and women are experiencing now because they don’t have friends for whatever reason (social media and technology have been a blessing and a curse for friendships).
He also shared that when he finally saw them in person again. It was not catching up, but picking up.
Everything he said is something many of us can relate to. I have lived in four cities, attended many different schools, and worked several jobs. So I have friends from all stages of my life. Some I talk to all the time, others for birthdays, and a few every couple of years. But no matter what, when we do talk or see each other, it is like no time has passed.
Everything he said resonated with me. Because of that, I can’t wait to read his book.
I am especially curious about the male dynamic because I have more guy friends than girl friends. However, almost all of the important ones missed my birthday and didn’t reach out until the next day, and that broke my heart. But I understand, even if it hurts.
Anyways, what is your take about friendship?
P.S. Don’t get me started on family! Wow, this post got personal! Friendship hug.
