英语专八作文范文

2007：Financial Disparity: Not a Barrier for Friendship

With the development of market economy in China arise the income gaps between people working in different fields: some earn good money; some make ends meet; some others live on narrow means. On top of many social problems this financial disparity may cause there is a claim that it affects friendship. The assumption seems reasonable but we may find it does not really hold water by taking a close look into the subject.

First of all true and lasting friendship is built on common values pursuits or hobbies rather than similar incomes. Friends are those who agree with your life views and stick to the some principles those who encourage you when you lack confidence in meeting challenges and pursuing your dream or those who share your interests and appreciate your tastes. Indeed what strengthens these emotional bonds between you and your pals is not the same amount of wealth but spiritual commonalities. Of course with similar financial backgrounds you will probable know better about each other's life style but the difference in this aspect will not matter if you are mutually appreciated needed and trusted. The friendship between Marx and Engels--the two German revolutionists--is a case in point. The former was often in debt while the latter was well-off; yet the same socialist dream drew them together and made them forever friends.

Moreover financial disparity between friends does not cause trouble because each of them usually lives a self-reliant life. Different from a married couple who have common properties budget and spend their income together even very close friends live on their own finances. For instance though we exchange ideas with and confide secrets to our friends we will never rely on them for a comfortable life no matter how rich they are. Admittedly there are times when we may go out for fun or to dinner together with friends; however whether they are richer or poorer than us we can definitely find a place suitable for all rather than one beyond somebody's means.

It is claimed that people with different financial backgrounds have different social contacts and accordingly as friends will get estranged sooner or later. It is true in some cases but bosom friends are not those who you get in touch with every day instead they are those who lend their hands to you when you fall into trouble just as the old saying goes a friend in need is a friend indeed. Hence despite their distinct material life the richer and the poorer can retain their friendship as long as they still care about each other understand and support each other.

To sum up financial disparity will not affect friendship when people have common spiritual pursuits lead an independent life and stand by each other for better or worse. It might be quite safe to say that money is not the barrier but the touchstone of real friendship.