Some friends move to new shores, where new life and friends and their jazzy lifestyle become more appealing than the old world ways of their old pals. Akin to some of us who throw away old cups and saucers for shiny set of kitchenware, old relationships are discarded for new thrilling ones. One can't completely blame these new age travelers, for physical distances in some people can sometimes create distances in the heart as well.
But what hurts the most is when those once considered to be very close, the types you once provided all the time and support when they were in emotional mess, begin to move away without a rhyme or reason. These are people who have lived in the same city with each being the part of other person's life: in joy, pain and while crossing personal milestones.
Yet, with the passage of time and the storm in their personal lives moving away, the need for the old pal too diminishes greatly. The friend who once functioned as a listening post is soon destined to become a nonfunctional lamppost. The friend has probably served the purpose.
Today, talking to this old pal is tedious. Forgotten are the jokes and gossips that once regaled conversations. The perspectives that were once sought today look silly; debates on life, matters, marriage, jobs, insecurity etc. that once appeared interesting, now appear stale. The friendship that bound us together like glue despite some stormy moments, has now worn away with age and indifference.
Even meeting that were once looked forward to, now is considered a waste of valuable time by the other. Birthday greetings over phones too have become perfunctory. The once free-flowing conversations between two good friends has becomes forced, stilted and subdued.
That's when it beings to dawn that people have moved on in life. Its probably one's shortcoming that too much importance was attached friendships and friends who cared little in return.
It's a curse for those who believe in the old adage "A friend in need is a friend indeed". Friendships are been built on mutual trust and respect. But with the passage of time washing away trust, you realize its time to let go.
Go on then, be at peace with your books and apricots... I shall disturb you no more. I have experienced enough in a lifetime to know that there comes a time, when there will be a need for a friend, someone who will listen, someone who will give sane advice when the entire world looks mad. But to enjoy the fruits of companionship, you need to nurture the sapling of friendship.
A great book can never ever replace a good friend. For remember, a book will give you the knowledge to deal with a crisis, but a friend will give you the courage to overcome it. One needs to make a clear distinction on what is more relevant as we age.
Good luck, my dear pal.
