Its interesting to pull out an old yearbook or photo album and try to remember each and every person's name. Sometimes you instantly start laughing and begin to ramble off a funny story and other times you stumble to remember your so-called best friend's name. Do people grow out of each other? After moving away almost two years ago, staying in contact has become a full-time job that I wasn't prepared to take on. Do I stay close to someone simply because we have a history or do I move on and blame it on distance? Being disappointed in someone you thought was your best friend for not crossing continents to see you, or writing off not calling someone else because you thought it was just acquaintances who hung out in the same circle. I noticed that people quickly begin to put titles on different levels of friendship to try to hold on or let go, but what if both parties don't agree on these newly added titles? I call this the "Gray Zone of Friendship" its this ugly place friendships end up, when were not upfront with each other, angry because were not talking, but unemotionally making small talk to grasp on to what used to be. I will be the first to admit I do it. Its a phenomena I've been noticing every time I go home and someone has a little reunion for everyone and we all end up talking about the weather for three hours. I'm still trying to figure it out, but theres a few things I am starting to try to make sense in my head. People come in and out of your life for a reason, whether its for an extended amount of time or just a week, its all equally as important, even if it may not be clear at the time, but it starts to make sense later. Earlier this year I said my new years resolution was to have no regrets, and that hold true in this situation. Everyone I have come into contact with has brought something new to the table and taught me something valuable. So here's the thing, I could keep count of every time someone didn't return my phone call or make time for me when I am home, or I could say screw it. There are all different types of relationships for a reason, so think of it like this, there's a reason that person who's name you can't remember's face is in that picture from that summer where you did that thing. The details aren't important, all that is, is that you were smiling and probably had a good time since it made the album. As for that best friend since kindergarden who you never get to see anymore, but when you do its as if a moment hasn't passed by, don't question it, just enjoy it. Everything in the middle eventually settles and learning to prioritize those friendships will always be a full-time job, but a well worth one.
