A season of friendships

Looking back over my life I have seen friendships come and go like the passing of seasons. I had a best friend in high school and college who I thought would be in my life forever, That friendship ended almost 20 years ago. Another close friendship ended after almost 25 years. In both cases my attempts to connect with people I felt strongly about were not reciprocated. I had to accept that these friendships had lived out their lifespan. Both of these friends have since passed. I could look back on the times we shared and focus on what held us together. We genuinely enjoyed being together no matter what was going on in our lives. We were there to support, listen to, vent, and celebrate. Their leaving allowed room for new people to enter my life and I am grateful for the presence of these new friends. New friends don't replace old friends. They simply occupy a new space in our hearts. It is a reminder that nothing is forever. Friendships are like the seasons. Winters of endings are followed by Springs of beginnings and renewal. Think about your friendships both past and present and know that they have each served a purpose in your life. What have you taken from those friendships that have helped you as a person?