Throughout our lives we continue to change, adapt, and grow.
No matter our age, there is always distance between ourselves and those closest to us. It may be a 10 minute drive or a 2 hour flight. But regardless of the miles between us, we are able to maintain those relationships.
We are able to reconnect with friends or family that we haven’t seen in awhile.
And we are still able to grow with these people.
When we lose a loved one to the other side of the world or to another coast, it can be extremely difficult. It is easy for us to focus on how far we are from each other because it’s such a major change. First, we have to wrap our heads around the fact that they are moving. Then, it begins to settle in that we will no longer see them on a regular basis. Once these two things are confirmed, then emotions begin to rush in.
But what if we didn’t get caught up in how far we were from one another?
What if, instead, we focused on how to maintain and nurture these relationships?
What if we chose to view it not as a loss, but as an opportunity to grow in a new way?
I have always been a road trip or short plane ride away from my family and friends. I make sure to keep in touch with these people because I cherish these relationships. Being a nomad who is used to moving every two to four years, has taught me how to keep these relationships strong regardless of distance.
It’s all about communication. No matter how busy our schedules become or how quickly time flies. We must plan times to talk and catch up with the special people in our lives. There are no reasons or excuses for us not to reach out. And we have to remember that communication is always a two-way street. Both parties need to continuously make an effort to remain in touch with each other. It’s easy to put the blame on the person who left but we have to remember that we are both responsible. Pointing the finger at the other person makes us feel better, in the moment. But deep down, it’s the little kids in us who are afraid to express how much we just really miss that person. For any relationship to flourish we have to express our feelings and thoughts openly and authentically.
Nurturing these relationships helps to keep us balanced. Moving to any new place can make us anxious, nervous, and fearful of being alone. Knowing that we have a support system is crucial. But we need to sustain that support system, no matter the distance. The moment we make excuses for our lack of communication is when the distance can take its toll.
Keeping open lines of communication is key to maintaining and nurturing connections with those closest to us. Once we do this, the distance we are apart no longer feels so far.
We are able to pick up where we left off with friends.
We are able to feel connected with those who know us best.
We are able to feel at home within ourselves as we begin to call our new place home.
