Old Friendships

Some of the best friends you can have are the friends where distance does not matter, where silence does not matter, and when you are back together things feel effortless. These relationships persist because of shared memories and experiences we can look back fondly on.

With these relationships, it can be years since you had last seen them, and also could have had sporadic communications during the in-person absences. However, after quick “catch-up” conversations it is as if no time had passed. Old stories and old memories shared mend any breaks that time apart may have created. The old stories discussed always help give a perspective of what used to be shared while the new life updates show everything that has happened since.

As we age, our social groups generally get smaller. The number of friends we have day-to-day conversations with inherently also decreases as this happens. At the same time, the amount of people we have shared memories with does not decrease. If those shared memories and experiences are strong enough, reconnecting with those people is a welcome change from the normal interactions we have.

It can be difficult it can be to hang out with someone you have not seen in a long time. Feelings of doubt creep in as you wonder what you will talk about since you have been apart for so long. With these types of relationships, it is very clear any awkwardness quickly dissipates and the joy of the friendship quickly reemerges.

It is important to make the effort to see friends you have not seen in a long time. These relationships are valuable for your life. Don’t be afraid to maintain old friendships.