We have all lost a friend that was once held dear to us. It’s how we handle it that matters.

As I look back through my life thus far, I see all of the friends that have come and gone.

Whether you spent an entire summer at their house or you went on every family vacation, nothing is definite.

People grow up and people change. You can’t be totally sure that these memories will last forever.

I spent almost 11 years of my life going back and forth from my house to my friend’s house. Now every time I look down the road I can’t help but think of the times we shared.

We would go on adventures and meditate together, and it made my life so much happier. When you have someone to share the good times with, it makes your time worth while.

I would go to her house and surprise her with food, or we would have a jam session featuring my ukulele and her guitar. We were inseparable and life was good, until we slowly grew apart.

It was time for me to grow up, get a job, and apply for college. She is two years younger than me and has yet to prepare for adult life, so our lives are no longer in sync.

It was very hard to get over not going to her house every day, but this has given me opportunities to meet so many other people. Without our friendship, I wouldn’t have learned how to care for someone, let alone be a friend.

I should thank her, but the situation is too complicated right now.

Friends are not forever and that’s OK. They are here to help us learn, thrive, and achieve, even if it is only for a short time.

Once you lose a friend the first thought that comes to mind is, what do I do now? Well, all you can do is continue your life and maybe you’ll find another pal on the way.

The times you spend with anyone should be cherished because you never know when they’ll be gone.

But when it comes to friends, don’t dwell on the bad, focus on the good.

Focus on the fact that you and that person shared amazing times together and no one will be able to take those memories away.