Whether you are absent in the neighboring room, or on the other side of the planet, the difference is not essential. The presence of the friend who apparently has moved away, can be more dense than a real presence.
In Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's "Letter to a Hostage," he reflects on the nature of friendship and presence. He suggests that the physical distance between friends does not diminish their connection. Whether a friend is just next door or thousands of miles away, their emotional presence can still feel profoundly significant.
This idea emphasizes the strength of human relationships, indicating that true bonds transcend geography. The essence of friendship can create a sense of closeness that remains intact, regardless of the circumstances that may separate individuals physically.