We all have those friends who, despite time and distance, feel like home. Recently, I had the joy of reconnecting with such a friend. It was like hitting the reset button on my soul.
Life has a way of piling up on us. Work deadlines, family responsibilities, and the never-ending to-do lists can make us feel like we’re running on empty. That’s where my friend comes in. We hadn’t seen each other in ages, but when we met up, it felt like no time had passed. We picked up right where we left off, as if our last conversation was just yesterday.
From the moment I saw her, I felt a wave of relief. Her smile, that familiar laugh, the way she instantly knew I needed a hug—it all felt so right. We sat down at a Dazbog café, ordered the usual, and started talking. Hours flew by, filled with laughter, reminiscing, and those deep, soul-touching conversations that only come with years of knowing each other.
Our friendship goes way back. We met in kindergarten (actually before, but who’s counting?), where we bonded over shared crayons and playground adventures (or hating each other for no reason until we decided we were actually the coolest kids in the school yard and joined forces). Through the ups and downs of childhood, we were inseparable. High school brought its own set of challenges, but we navigated them together, always finding comfort in our unbreakable bond.
Then came adulthood, and life took us in different directions. College, careers, relationships—we found ourselves miles (eons) apart, both physically and in our day-to-day experiences. Despite the distance, we never truly drifted. Social media and occasional emails kept us updated, but it wasn’t the same as being together.
Yet, when we finally reconnected in person, it felt like no time had passed. We hadn’t just maintained our friendship; we had deepened it. The years apart allowed us to grow individually, and now we appreciate each other even more. Our conversations are richer, filled with the wisdom of our experiences and the joy of rediscovering our bond.
We talked about everything under the sun. Our current struggles. Our small victories. Our dreams that had evolved over the years. She listened without judgment, offering support and perspective that I had been desperately needing. Her words were like a balm, soothing the rough edges life had carved into me.
One of the most refreshing parts of our time together was the sheer honesty. With her, I didn’t have to put on a brave face or pretend that everything was perfect. I could be vulnerable and raw. In a world where we often feel pressured to present a curated version of our lives, this authenticity was a breath of fresh air. She reminded me that it’s okay to not have it all together all the time, and that sometimes, just surviving is enough.
Since that initial reconnection, we’ve made a point to see each other at least once a month. Each visit feels like a breath of fresh air, a necessary pause that revitalizes my spirit. Whether it’s catching up over coffee or spending a leisurely afternoon together, these moments always leave me feeling refreshed and recharged.
Her children often join us, bringing a whole new dimension to our connection. Seeing them for the first time was like meeting little extensions of her, each carrying a piece of her spirit. They had her eyes, her smile, and a sense of curiosity and kindness that was unmistakably hers. Watching her interact with them, I saw the depth of her love and dedication, which made me admire her even more.
As we strolled through the park, laughing at old jokes and creating new memories, I realized how much I had missed this connection. It wasn’t just about nostalgia. It was about being seen and understood by someone who has witnessed your journey and loves you for exactly who you are. Her children, in their innocence and energy, reminded me of the joy and spontaneity of life. They brought out a playful side in both of us that had been dormant for far too long.
Spending time with her children also strengthened our bond. They quickly accepted me, as children often do, with open hearts and endless questions. Their presence added layers to our conversations, as we talked about the challenges and joys of parenthood. It was heartwarming to see her in this new role and to be a part of her children’s lives, even if just for a day. It made our friendship feel even more like family.
By the end of each visit, I feel a profound sense of renewal. It’s not just the joy of spending time with someone dear. It’s the reminder of the importance of human connection, of allowing ourselves to be vulnerable, and of the power of true friendship. I walk away with a lighter heart, a clearer mind, and a spirit that feels more at peace than it has in a long time.
If you have an old friend you’ve been meaning to reconnect with, don’t wait. Reach out. Send that message. Make that call. Plan that visit. Life is too short to let these precious connections slip away. We all need that reset button sometimes, and there’s no better way to find it than in the company of a friend who knows your heart.
So, here’s to old friends. To their unwavering support. Their honest words. Their ability to make us feel whole again. My soul feels reset, and I have my dear friend to thank for it. Go ahead, find your reset button. It’s closer than you think.
xoxo
-S
Diet Coke and Hair-Spray 