“Somebody asked me if I knew you.  A million memories flashed through my mind, but I just smiled and said I used to.”⁠

Wiz Khalifa

It both amazes and also scares me how fast friendships can form, and then how quickly friends can become strangers.  It’s crazy.  Whether due to growth in different directions, or a falling out of some sort, friendships and relationships sometimes fail.  I’m the first one to preach about everything happening for a reason.  And it’s true.  But it never makes the pain of losing any less.

Thankfully, these gut-wrenching moments are so few and far between we sort of forget how they feel, but this morning, completely unexpectedly, and caught entirely off guard, I was inadvertently reminded, and in case ya’ll were wondering, they still sting so badly.  And so, because I had to walk past someone today who I once considered family, and then continue walking, as if she and I were total strangers, I write this. ⁠

Dear Lost Friends,

I’m grateful each and every single day for all of the wonderful people in my life.  I have so many acquaintances, more good friends than most, and a handful or two of rare special treasures.  I’m blessed beyond belief, and I’m not naive to the fact most are not as lucky as me in this regard.

Yet, there are some people I’ve lost along the way, for reasons I don’t want to or can’t even explain.  Life doesn’t come with an instruction manual, or a television show script.  And I truly believe we’re all doing the very best we can with the cards we’re dealt.  But for friends who have become strangers please note this, I never wanted it to be this way.

I think about you often and I want to thank you for the memories we’ve had together.  I cherish the good times, laughs, adventures, and travels with you.  Thank you for teaching me what friendship is, and even if it wasn’t deliberate, for also showing me what it’s not… and more so who my true friends are.  Thank you for playing a part in shaping me into a better and stronger person along the way.

Although there was definitely a time when I was upset, bitter, and even angry about losing you, I now wish the best for you.  You’ve taught me how important it is to live life to the fullest never dwelling on things beyond my control, and yet another life lesson in letting go.  That being said, I sincerely hope you are doing well and are happy.

With Love,

Krystina