"Friendship isn't about who you've known the longest, it's about who came and never left your side." -unknown

What is the definition of a true friendship? Some would say that it's two people who share common interests, or spend a great amount of time together. Some would say that it's two people who will support each other no matter what. There are many different types of friendships. The friendship between Steve Lopez and Nathaniel Ayers is probably one of the most unique ever written about. Although they were not on the same level in many ways, they still managed to form a special bond and mutual care for each other.

Since this friendship was so far from ordinary, its authenticity was naturally questioned. There were many who believed that Lopez was simply using Ayers because his story became so popular. When a man came to him with these accusations, Lopez became very defensive, saying "it's none of your business," over and over. His actions made it seem as if the accusations were true, and probably caused more speculation.

Despite the reasons that may cause one to think Lopez was exploiting Nathaniel, his true loyalty shone through in the end. He stood by him throughout his slow but steady steps to recovery. He believed in Nathaniel even when it seemed as if there was nothing to believe in. When Nathaniel lashed out at him, Lopez not only forgave him, but continued to befriend him. He was able to understand that Nathaniel's seemingly hateful outburst was caused by his illness, not because he truly meant the words that he said. These are the qualities of a dedicated friend. A genuine friend is able to see beyond the surface and discover the real reason for the other person's actions. A real friend not only accepts your flaws, but understands them.

The Soloist 13-22

Throughout this story, the most difficult question for Steve Lopez seems to not be whether or not he is able to help Nathaniel, but how. There is no instant cure for people with Nathaniel's disease, and Lopez seems to always be wondering if what he is doing the right thing. These constant doubts lead him to consult many experts, all of them offering different opinions. So which method of treatment really is best?

Of course, there are the psychiatrists who believe that Nathaniel must be on medication. They think that is the only way for him to get well. Nathaniel endured some bad experiences with prescription medications in the past, and understandably does not want to use them again. He claimed that they made him feel like a "zombie." It makes a person wonder, is that really a cure for his disease? Is the best way to handle an overactive mind is to make it not think at all? Then there's Dr. Ragins, who believes in using a more comprehensive approach. He talks with each patient and gets to know their unique personality. A method that works for one person will not necessarily work for someone else.

If there is one thing that all of the doctors seem to agree on, it's that Lopez is helping Nathaniel simply by showing him compassion and friendship. That seems to be the one thing that all of the patients need. Without support and encouragement, no one in Nathaniel's situation could ever really get better.

The Soloist chapters 7-12

The Soloist is definitely a story that becomes more interesting as you read it. One cannot help but be intrigued with Nathaniel's story and its unexpected twists and turns. You try to predict what will happen next, only to be surprised by the outcome. I personally have a feeling that Nathaniel's story will take a turn for the worst before there is a great amount of improvement. The way things are right now seem a little too calm. I also wonder how much longer Lopez will continue to help Nathaniel, or if he will lose patience and abandon him. So far, Lopez has proved to be a devoted friend, but there is only so much one person is able to endure. I am interested in seeing how the rest of this story unfolds.

The Soloist Chapters 1-6

In many ways, Steve Lopez can be considered a pioneer. His decision to write about Nathaniel Ayers for his column was a bold move in his career. His decision to befriend Ayers and take a great interest in him as a person was inspirational. Mental illness is too often considered a taboo subject and swept under the rug. Many people believe that individuals with mental illnesses are incapable of living normal lives and need to be put away from the rest of society. Through his words and actions, Lopez has taken the first step in helping people like Nathaniel; by making the public aware that they are full of potential.

When Lopez and Ayers became friends, two distinct worlds and perspectives collided. One was Nathaniel's world, the inside. Up until that point, Nathaniel lived much of his life trapped in his own head. He would interact with the strangers who appreciated his music, but was afraid of letting anyone too close. He obviously suffered some tragic times in his past and probably did not want to be reminded of them.

The other world was Lopez's, the outside. Lopez probably felt as if Nathaniel was a house with locked doors and he was looking for a window to peer inside. He wanted to help him as much as possible, but was not sure how or who to turn to. Although we are not sure how the story will end, and for people like Nathaniel the struggle is never really over, Lopez has helped to make a brighter future for him and many others in situations like his.