True Friendship Shines in Difficult Times

• True Friendship Shines in Difficult Times
• BY:Ubaid

Khalid and Ehsan were not childhood friends. Their bond of friendship was formed much later, right after their matriculation examinations. Fate had brought them together in such a way that their companionship soon grew into a relationship of deep trust, care, and loyalty.

Khalid was a bright and hardworking student. His grasp of subjects, especially Mathematics and English, was impressive. Ehsan, on the other hand, was slower in studies and often struggled with difficult lessons. He was not unintelligent, but he lacked confidence and the right guidance. This difference in their abilities was the very thing that brought them closer.

One day, Khalid noticed that Ehsan seemed worried about the upcoming board exams. Sensing his concern, Khalid offered his help. He said,
“Ehsan, if you sincerely prepare with me for the next fifteen days and come to my house with your books, I’ll make sure you understand every subject. You will do well in the exams, I promise.”

Ehsan was overjoyed. Hope returned to his heart, and he immediately accepted Khalid’s offer. He thanked him wholeheartedly. From that day on, Ehsan started visiting Khalid’s home every afternoon. Khalid tutored him with patience and kindness, revising mathematics problems, explaining tricky English grammar, and sharing useful exam tips. Slowly, Ehsan began to feel confident. Their friendship deepened, and the bond of trust between them became unbreakable.

But life, as it often does, tested them. Just a few days before the exams, Ehsan suddenly fell ill. Fever gripped his body, and weakness made it hard for him even to sit up. Panic spread in his household. His family feared that he would not be able to sit for his exams.

When Khalid learned of his friend’s condition, he rushed to Ehsan’s home. He found him lying weak on his bed, drenched in sweat. Khalid’s heart sank. The thought of Ehsan missing the exams after so much preparation deeply troubled him.

Sitting beside him, Khalid said gently, “Ehsan, you cannot give up now. We’ve worked too hard. Let’s see a good doctor. If you recover even a little in two or three days, you’ll still make it to the examination hall. Please don’t lose hope.”

Ehsan, though weak, trusted his friend’s words. Khalid then personally took him to a nearby doctor. After examination, the doctor declared, “He has typhoid fever. Don’t worry; with the right treatment, he should feel much better in two days. I’ll keep him here in my clinic for a few hours today, and afterward, continue the medicines at home.”

This reassurance lifted a huge weight from their hearts. Khalid stayed with Ehsan until the doctor discharged him. He also carefully noted the medicine schedule and explained everything to Ehsan’s parents. For the next two days, Khalid kept visiting to make sure his friend was taking the medicines properly.

Thankfully, by the grace of God and timely treatment, Ehsan’s health improved quickly. Within three days, he was strong enough to continue his revision. His family was overjoyed, but no one was happier than Khalid, who felt as though his own brother had recovered.

Ehsan resumed his study sessions at Khalid’s home. With renewed determination, he focused on the weaker subjects. Khalid worked with him tirelessly, reviewing topics late into the night. Together, they not only revised but also built the courage to face the challenge ahead.

When the matriculation exams finally began, both friends walked to the school together every morning. They encouraged one another, exchanged last-minute notes, and returned home side by side after each paper. Those weeks were filled with nervousness but also with solidarity, which gave them the strength to carry on.

Three months later, the result day arrived. With trembling hands, both Khalid and Ehsan opened their result cards. To their surprise and joy, they had both scored exceptionally well. Khalid had secured a top position, as everyone expected, but what filled his heart with pride was seeing Ehsan’s remarkable improvement. Ehsan had not only passed but had achieved good marks in subjects he once feared.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, Ehsan said to Khalid, “My friend, this success belongs to you as much as it does to me. Without your help and encouragement, I would never have come this far. You stood by me when I was at my weakest. You proved what true friendship really means.”

Khalid simply smiled and replied, “That’s what friends are for, Ehsan. In times of hardship, we must never let each other fall.”

Their story became an inspiring reminder to everyone who knew them: real friendship is not about laughter in good times but about standing firm in moments of trial. Khalid and Ehsan’s journey showed that with faith, loyalty, and sincere effort, even the most difficult challenges can be turned into triumphs.

And so, two friends walked out of their matriculation year not just with good grades but with a lifelong bond, stronger than ever.