A neighborhood pal I played kickball and green light go with after school. He had taught me to ride a bike and the last time we were together we laughed heartily over a pancake dinner.
It was a great time and though it had been many years since we were in one another's company, it felt the same. I found that his warmth and humor had never left my spirit.
When my best girlfriend since 7th grade transitioned a few years back, I came to know a new pain, unlike the loss of a parent.
Our friends are the ones we tell our secrets to and accomplish those bucket list items we would never let mom and dad know about. Our friends are the ones who tell the truth even when it hurts and meet us at the crossroads when we are set upon by the realities of life. And though we must move on with our lives, it is difficult to continue the journey without them.
"At sunset the little soul that had come with the dawning went away, leaving heartbreak behind it." ~ L.M. Montgomery
Of course I know grief and loss are part of the life cycle, but it does not help my heart hurt any less. And so I am initiated into a new club. One in which we bid farewells to those friendship ties we never think will be paused. A club in which we learn to accept the brevity of time and the value of shared moments and memories.
"Don't cry for the horses
They will be back someday
When our time has come
They will show us the way"
~ Brenda Riley-Seymore
When you reflect upon your childhood friendships what stands out as most meaningful?
What are you doing to cultivate the friendship connections you value the most?
"Friendships, especially those born in childhood, take root in us. When one is lost, a branch withers but it does not die. Joy yet lingers in the remnants of shared laughter." ~ JoiLotus
Join the journey and experience the joy of unfolding!
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