What We Taught Each Other

Answer side by side

In what way are you braver, calmer or kinder because of me? Pick one, and prove it.

The question sits across the top; you each answer on your own page. Whoever writes second reads the first answer before writing — agree, argue, or correct the record.

Why this question

A specific occasion when you acted differently because I exist.

And once you’ve both answered

Would you have got there without me? Honestly?

Answering it honestly

  • Whoever writes second reads the first answer before writing — properly, not a skim. Your page can agree, argue, or correct the record.
  • Be specific. Dates, places, what was playing, who else was there. Wrong details are welcome; they're evidence.
  • Don't negotiate a joint version. Two accounts that refuse to match are worth more than one polished one.

And the house rule, whatever the mode: leave a blank rather than write a lie. A blank can be filled later; a lie sits in the archive forever, and you both have to live with the paperwork.

More from What We Taught Each Other

What has this friendship taught you about friendship itself?

What have you quietly stolen from the way I parent, work or love?

What's the worst advice I ever gave you? Log it lovingly, for posterity.