To some, losing a close friendship can be more painful than a romantic break-up. Over drinks one evening, my friends and I shared stories of a best friend we lost touch with over the years.
Either because of a regrettable argument or misunderstanding, or branching off on different life paths; we might not even know anymore the reason why we no longer speak.
As we began to reminisce on lost friendships, it led me to pen a letter to an old best friend.
Hi, it’s me
I know it’s been many years since we spoke and I can’t remember if it was because of something I did or you did.
Anyway I hope you’re well. I think about you sometimes as a 20-year friendship is not something you easily forget. Here are some fond memories I keep replaying.
Meeting in school
We were 10 years old when we met in school. We soon became friends. Later on, the bullies in our school who tried to intimidate you, found out that messing with you meant messing with me. At such a young age, we were each other’s armour.
The teenage years
At 14 years old, things started to get rocky between us. We competed for boys and it nearly broke us. The first boy we both liked, he chose me. The next boy we liked, I dated him, but he preferred you. It took a while for us to rebuild our trust, but we finally made our way back.
Separated but closer than ever
At 17 years old, we went to different colleges. It would be our first time to not see each other every day. The weekends became our reunions and we lived them to the fullest. The parties, the dancing and the clubs. We became known as the dynamic duo to some, or the troublesome twosome to others.
We were each other’s family
As we moved into our 20s, the next years were tough with personal losses along the way. When my parents split up, you called me every day to see if I was OK. And when your mother fell ill, I rushed to be by both your sides. My family was your family, and it was the same for me. We were sisters.
Fully grown but apart
We’re now in our 30s, and somehow, we’ve fallen out of each other’s lives. It’s strange to think that my kids won’t get to know your kids and that we’re no longer family. Wherever you are, I hope you’re doing well. But most of all, I want to thank you for those amazing 20 years.
Love,
From Me.
Your former best friend.
Very nice, touching post. Reading it feels therapeutic. Well written Mimi.
Thank you KK! Recommend everyone to try this exercise as helps give the relationship or friendship closure