I said this phrase today and I kind of like it. I feel like it’s loaded with meaning. The root word of “bond” is defined as a relationship between people or groups based on shared feelings, interests, or experiences (according to google). While the ladder word of “instability” is used to describe unpredictable behavior or erratic changes of mood. So the idea of bonding over instability is an oxymoron. You have the strength of a connection paired with the lack of stability. There isn’t much comparison of the two words. However, I like the irony of the phrase because life can be ironic and sometimes, you’re forced to just go it.

The original context of this phrase was used in the sense of mental health. Bonding over mental health, I’d like to think that type conversation is becoming more normalized. It’s like talking openly and candidly without glamorizing the seriousness. It raises awareness, breaks stigma, and lets people know how we are all doing. It’s okay to not be okay and sometimes masking can get very tiring. I also think it’s a sign of trust amongst friends too. To share how you’re genuinely feeling without judgement, I think everyone needs someone like that in their lives. Not to fix one another, but to support one another. Sometimes we all need to bond with someone, in both our stable and unstable days. 

I had originally used this phrase to describe my relationship with a friend, however, it got me thinking about all the instability we face at work. Behaviors, coworker drama, the occasional medical emergency, everyday is the definition of instability. Unpredictable and unstable. No day is ever the same and it can be very hard to make it through. Luckily, there are a handful of coworkers who are absolutely wonderful and put 110% into every single day. They make sure no one gets hurt, the day runs as smoothly as possible, and that everyone is taken care of. In the moments when we can take a breather, it’s nice to bond with a coworker over the craziness. In a department filled with instability, they make it stable. 

So, to my friend who was with me when this phrase was spoken, I’m thankful for each bonding moment with you. Whether it’s a stable or unstable moment, all is worth it.