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Every one of us lives a life colored by individual and changing experiences, perceptions, needs, and desires. We connect with others, becoming friends and confidants, most often because they share something with us, such as an interest or need. But as time goes on there is change, and the bonds that brought you close to a treasured friend may not be enough to sustain the relationship.

I've found my life has gone in wildly different directions and you no longer share the same aspirations, or you may have changed on an energetic level. The comfort once found has vanished, that nowadays, we have trouble relating as we once did. Outgrowing this friendship is confusing and painful, but I understand it's just a natural personal growth.

We have the right to choose to surround ourselves with those people who understand us, are helpful and compassionate, and put us at ease. But as months and years into friendships, friends don't seem to be the same people they once were. The change may have been within them, but may also have come from within us. Moving on doesn't mean that the past shared experiences were not meaningful or important to me, but rather it acknowledges my needs in the present. It's difficult. But the reasoning of change is always difficult to explain. But I will always be kind, respectful, and considerate. I will always be there.

People who have been a part of my life each taught me something. Some friendships are long-term while others may be brief. But in all relationships, I try to embrace changes and to let go of regrets. While I may outgrow the need to maintain friendships with these people who were once special to me, those people will nonetheless always occupy a place in my heart.

S & L