A friend is someone we trust, like spending time with and share common interests with. It is only when we get to know a person well and realise that we have many common values and interests that our bond grows stronger and we become friends. We grow closer to them, care for them and enjoy their company. Some of our friendships may last a lifetime, while some may last for only a short period.
There are many reasons why we may lose friends. Sometimes, friendships end because of misunderstandings or disrespect. In such cases, it is okay to distance ourselves from people to protect our own feelings. Another reason is that people and situations change. As people grow older, they may grow apart from some friends not because of a fight or disagreement, but simply because they no longer have much in common. For example, you may have had a friend whom you were very close to when you were younger. But eventually, you both got busy with your studies, joined different hobby classes, made new friends and drifted apart.
As you grow older, you explore more opportunities, meet new people and develop new interests. So, the interests and values you once shared with a friend may change over time and you may not like the same things anymore. In such cases, it is natural to drift apart from them.
While it is important to maintain friendships, it is also important to accept that you may naturally grow apart from some friends. If you stay with the same people throughout your life, you may miss out on making new friends, learning new things and growing.
As you step into the new year, you may see a lot of changes coming your way. Remember, life is all about changes. Accept them, know they have come your way to bring you new experiences, to form new memories and to teach you a new way of life. Like your friends, these new learnings will enrich you and help you grow.
Have a super duper 2024!
REFLECTION: Changing With the Years
In which areas of your life have you changed over the past few years?
