An Octopus to Your Face

There’s a saying I’ve kept close: "A True Friend Sticks Like an Octopus to Your Face." At first glance, it’s quirky, maybe even funny, but it carries a profound truth about the power of unwavering support. It’s about having that one person who sticks with you, no matter what. Whether you call them your battle buddy, swimbuddy, or simply your best friend, having someone who’s always there is like having a lifeline when life feels overwhelming.

Life can feel like a relentless series of battles, from everyday stresses to the deep, personal struggles with trauma, PTSD, and the demons that seem to rear their heads when we least expect it. It’s during these moments, when the darkness closes in, that the presence of a true friend—a real octopus—becomes invaluable. They’re not just there to listen; they’re the ones who show up when things get tough, who stick by you and refuse to let you fight alone. They anchor you, reminding you that no matter how fierce the storm, you don’t have to face it on your own.

In the military, these bonds are often called “battle buddies” or “swimbuddies.” It’s not just a label; it’s a commitment to each other’s survival, to standing by one another through every high and low. These relationships are forged in the crucible of shared experiences and hardships, and they often become the difference between feeling isolated and knowing you’re supported. It’s the person who will pick up your call at 2 a.m., who will stand by you without judgment, and who constantly reminds you that you’re not alone in your struggles.

Having that kind of connection can literally be life-saving. It’s about knowing someone has your back, even in your darkest hours. They are the ones who make sure you don’t retreat into yourself, who keep you grounded when the weight of your thoughts feels too heavy. It’s a bond built on trust, loyalty, and the kind of understanding that doesn’t need words. It’s about being there for each other, no matter what.

When life’s battles get tough, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and alone. But that’s exactly when reaching out to your “octopus”—your battle buddy, your swimbuddy—matters most. Whether it’s through a call, a text, or just a quiet presence, these connections are what pull us through. They remind us that our battles, no matter how personal or daunting, are never fought alone. Together, we find the strength to rise, adapt, and push through.

We all need that octopus—someone who sticks with us, who reminds us that even in the fiercest fights, we have support. And just as importantly, we need to be that octopus for someone else. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about facing life’s challenges alone; it’s about having each other’s backs, sticking together, and standing strong, no matter what.

So find your octopus, be someone’s octopus, and remember: no one fights alone. Stand strong, stand together, and let’s face life’s battles side by side.