Growing apart

I find that, as I continue to focus on the positive, there are people from my past who are in a very different place in their lives. It becomes more difficult to spend time together. I am reminded that this is how I spent the majority of my waking time and how that may have been perceived by others. I realize I cannot create a better life for those around me other than for me to be the best person I can be today. Perhaps the life I am living may provide a glimpse of what is possible to others. One difference for me today is that I no longer allow the negative space that another person is in to put a damper on my day. What I can do is to be available to listen to what may be happening to affect their lives. The words I need to say will be given to me when I know it is not about wanting to control or manipulate the other person to see things my way. Other people's paths belong to them just as mine was required to be where I am today. In some instances it reaches a point where the relationship dissolves naturally. Then I have the opportunity to grieve its loss always mindful that such relationships can be reinstated if that is part of the plan. What is your experience with growing apart from someone you care about and how does it reflect your growth?