Many casual acquaintances come in and out of our lives. And, to be fair, most of these remain unremarkable once our season together has passed. But occasionally someone comes into our life that leaves us forever changed, even if our time together was just for a season.
Of course, we understand the importance of our lifetime friends. And it’s only natural to be shaped by those we spend a lifetime with. But seasonal friendships can also have a lasting impact and should not be dismissed just because of their limited timeframe.
To be sure, seasons come and go, and many friends do the same. Many times this is a natural ending, such as the end of a school career, leaving a job, or moving to a new city. Occasionally, we also just drift apart; perhaps our priorities in life simply put us on different paths. And still at other times there might be a sharp and painful break in our relationship.
Whatever it looks like, it’s clear on the back end, the friendship we once had is over. But the end of the friendship doesn’t mean the end of its impact.
It seems God brings certain people into our life to refine us for the better. And this doesn’t always require a lifetime, as our souls will remain forever touched by the time we did have together.
As such, we’re free to let go – no longer holding on to what has passed its season, because we know letting go is not forgetting. In fact, there’s a sense in which we cannot forget, because much of who we are today has been formed by God bringing our paths together.
In the end, bless your friendships even as your paths head in different directions, because God has used you to change each other for the better, and for good.
Photo by Bas Masseus on Pexels
