I met my best friend when I was 6 years old. We had been next door neighbors our whole lives, but it wasn’t until my mother arranged a play date for us that we started speaking to each other.
At first, I was mortified that my mother was pushing me to make friends, but in hindsight, I’m glad she did.
After that, she and I were inseparable. Metaphorically, of course. Throughout our elementary, middle and high school years, we rarely had a class together, but since we lived next to each other, our bond was stronger than ever.
We made time for each other and would spend as much time together as possible by playing outside for hours on end at a time. We blossomed together. Every victory, low or embarrassing moment, heartache, failed test or fight–she was there for me.
She and I would always try to imagine what we’d be like as adults. We fantasized the houses, cars and jobs we’d have. Despite all of the dreaming we’d do, one thing never crossed my mind–would we be doing these things together?
In the months leading up to high school graduation, we had grown apart significantly and began to lose contact.
Both of us became overwhelmed and preoccupied with applying for college and choosing our majors. I was applying as a business major and she was leaning toward art, education and writing.
The thought of expanding our horizons outside our small town was beyond exciting, but the thought of dissolving our friendship after 12 years was scary.
I was already sad about leaving my family and hometown behind, but became sadder when I realized I was leaving her behind, too.
In the blink of an eye, we graduated from high school and the summer before our first semester of college was coming to a close.
We said our goodbyes weeks before my 18th birthday. We promised to keep in touch, but I was doubtful of that happening.
After we started college, I had completely detached myself from high school friends in order to get a fresh start. However, I struggled immensely with making new friends and often found myself alone and miserable most of the time.
That period of isolation taught me that a friendship can withstand anything, even distance.
It has been about two years since high school graduation and I can confidently say that we’re closer than ever. Just like before, we make time to see each other, chat frequently and cheer each other on from our respective schools and cities.
She turned 20 in November, making this the first birthday of hers that I’ve missed during our 13-year friendship. I’ve been thinking about her a lot lately, mostly wondering if I’ve missed anything else during our time apart.
I want my story to demonstrate that distance is no obstacle in friendship and to inspire others to reach out to old friends, catch up with them and show that you care.
