— Relationships —

Farewell to a Friendship

pin it

She looked as elegant as ever and my heart contracted. I had not been expecting to see her and I was surprised, if not a little sad.

The night we met we connected instantly, bonding over our mutual love of food and travel, fitness and art. I remember the first time she remarked on my creative side, I was so thrilled that someone as talented as my dear friend had seen something in me that was desperate to be revealed. She unwittingly set the course of my life in a new direction.

We shared secrets and made so many happy memories together, as unmarried women and then on various adventures as a fabulous group of four with our husbands. I believed at the time ours was a friendship that would last forever… and then, she moved away.

She moved to another country to create a new life, which included starting a family, making new friends and developing interests in which I no longer played a part. Our calls and correspondence grew increasingly strained until communication dwindled to a stop. I was surprised to see her back in London. The fact she hadn’t let me know she was going to be in town was evidence that the divide between us covered far more than just miles.

I squeezed both of her hands, gently between mine, and looked into her eyes. “It’s so good to see you. You look incredible.” We talked for a short while, but it soon became evident we no longer had very much in common. It made me sad, but when we hugged farewell, I understood we’d let one another go. Our friendship had run its natural course, and we’d both moved on.

I have other stories, similar to this one, from various stages of my life. We all do. As we grow older, it’s only natural that some friendships will change over time. I’ve been criticized in the past for being willing to let friends go, but sometimes you just have to.

Letting go doesn’t mean the love you have for them ends. Everyone I’ve ever called a friend has added something to my life, or taught me something important about myself. Even on the rare occasions when a friendship didn’t end as well as I would have hoped, I’ve learned to let go with love, sending a silent prayer of thanks for everything that person brought into my life.

I write this as my train flies past gorgeous French countryside. I’m travelling from London to Paris to meet our very own Brenda Coffee and to share a couple of days of girl time with her. We can’t remain friends with everyone our entire lives and if we tried to, then we’d miss out on making space for new friends to come in.


8 Comments

  • Jen Lawrence May 3, 2016 at 8:47 pm

    I’ve had friendships wax and wane too. Beautiful post. France sounded magical. xo

    • Esther Zimmer May 5, 2016 at 3:54 am

      Jen, I believe it’s a natural part of life. Imagine if we tried to hold onto everyone we’ve ever met? It’s just not possible. Thanks for your comment. Paris with Brenda was a most magical weekend! Esther xx

  • Holly May 4, 2016 at 7:01 am

    a long friendship with a workmate has just recently come to an end. I was feeling all sorts of guilt at stepping back from a friendship, even if it was toxic. your post has just helped me sort a good deal of it out.. thank you

    • Esther Zimmer May 5, 2016 at 3:56 am

      Oh, Holly. I feel for you, it’s not easy when friendships end but if it was toxic, then you shouldn’t feel guilty for stepping back. Thank you for your kind comment, it’s always encouraging to know that what I’ve written has helped someone else. Sending you my best wishes, Esther xx

  • 1010 Park Place May 4, 2016 at 4:35 pm

    This was the story you told me about in Paris! I loved our time together! So honoured and thrilled you came to meet me! xoxox, Brenda

    • Esther Zimmer May 5, 2016 at 4:01 am

      Yes, it is! Oh, Brenda…I loved our time together too! It was such a special weekend and having that time with you is something I will always treasure – particularly as I had you all to myself! I’m so honoured you asked me, so many wonderful memories. Essie xx

      • 1010 Park Place May 5, 2016 at 9:37 pm

        I wish I’d gotten a better picture of the vampire. I’m still thinking about him! xoxox

  • Elaine @ OMG Lifestyle Blog May 11, 2016 at 7:35 pm

    Yes, we all have some friendships that come and go due to life changes. I absolutley love your last line …”We can’t remain friends with everyone our entire lives and if we tried to, then we’d miss out on making space for new friends.” So well put Esther!

    xo

    Elaine

    PS Glad you and Brenda were able to meet up! Wish I could have joined you!

  • You Might Also Like

    MAKE LIFE COUNT.

    Sign up to our list and we’ll send you our sought-after guide “45 Ways To Change Your Life”
    I'm happy you've joined us! If you like what you read, I'd love for you to stay and subscribe to our updates by email. We have a great community of like-minded women, and your presence can only make it stronger.