What I See with Peter Fiorenza: The importance of friendship is even more vital in an impersonal world

Friendship is something I hold very dear. I’m sure I’m not alone, but in this changing world, I believe people are being encouraged to become more and more isolated. More people are living alone and, basically because of technology, they are even employed in jobs that require minimal face-to-face contact. So, it would seem society is, intentionally or not, creating a situation in which we rely on others less and less to actually function as human beings. In many respects, life is becoming very impersonal, with people so wrapped up in their own worlds there is little time to share with someone else. As I get older, I’m starting to realise, though, that I value relationships at any level because, for me, they are the mortar that really holds the bricks together. And there is one rock-solid friendship that I have been privy to for some time — well, all of my life, really. My mum has been friends with Julie Boschetti for more than 60 years. They first met socially in the 1950s, when Julie moved with her family to Geraldton, after her father, Jack Miles, took up a managing position at the Geraldton Fishermen’s Co-operative. They got friendly spending time at the Geraldton Yacht Club, which was the local hub for dancing on a Saturday night. Even after marriage, they remained friends, with each stepping up as godparents when babies started making an appearance. As time has moved on, even though they have worked and associated in different circles, they have remained close and loyal. Over the decades, Greta and Julie have spoken to each other more than once a week, and are always touching base at Christmas and on birthdays. Recently, both celebrated something quite special. Julie turned the significant age of 80. Mum passed the milestone last year. My godmother Julie is, indeed, something special. Along with her husband Bert she has not only carved a life for her family, but done her bit to positively affect the lives of many in the region. There would be those who admire Bert Boschetti as a great ideas man, but I can tell you Julie helps him hold firmly on to the reins. I can categorically say Julie is one of the kindest, most thoughtful people I know. In fact, I have never heard her say a bad word about anyone. Happy birthday, Aunty Julie, and thank you for being my mum’s best friend. Peter Fiorenza hosts Fiorenza on Sunday between 10am and noon on Radio MAMA