Embracing Change: Why Losing Connections Can Be Beneficial
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Understanding the Unexpected Departures
How often have you crossed paths with someone unexpectedly, only to become inseparable within a few months, leaving you to wonder how you ever managed without them? Yet, just as quickly as they enter your life, they can vanish, leaving you in turmoil.
Eastern philosophies often suggest that connections are formed to impart lessons to each other's souls. In contrast, Western perspectives tend to be more straightforward:
_"Love isn’t designed to make us happy; it exists to demonstrate our capacity for endurance."_ — Hermann Hesse, Wer lieben kann, ist glücklich. Über die Liebe.
When we grasp the lesson, it makes sense for the relationship to come to an end, doesn’t it?
Why Holding On Can Be Challenging
Many people find it hard to release not just past experiences, possessions, or the past itself, but also relationships. There’s often a fear that letting go equates to disloyalty or inadequacy as friends, leading to the belief that survival is impossible without that individual.
Consider this: Have you ever thought about whether you’ve grown and no longer feel the need to invest time in a particular person, be it a loved one or a friend? Why cling to a relationship that no longer serves you?
Relationships are akin to clothing; some you simply outgrow. No matter how hard you try, they no longer fit.
When someone departs, it can be a sign of progress. While one person may be evolving, the other could be stagnating, presenting another angle to the situation. Change is a constant, regardless of the scenario.
Many struggle to accept change. The unfamiliar often evokes fear, with thoughts like, “Why alter something that seems fine as is?” Even if it’s not functioning optimally, the discomfort of change feels daunting. This mindset is common among adults but isn’t conducive to growth.
I genuinely care for others and wish to maintain friendships, but that’s not always possible.
Many of us have moved on from detrimental habits. For instance, I used to indulge in gossip, a tendency shaped by my family’s discussions about others. Eventually, I recognized it was neither productive nor fulfilling. I firmly believe in the power of energy; what you discuss, you attract.
When I decided to steer clear of gossip and engage in uplifting conversations, I noticed that some friends had little else to talk about. Our discussions inevitably circled back to gossip, leading me to naturally distance myself from them.
I appreciate our differences; I thrive on discussions about business and ideas, while some find such topics dull. It’s about connecting with those who share your passions.
Thus, when you evolve beyond a relationship or situation, letting go isn’t a negative act. It signifies that you’ve simply outgrown that connection, and there’s no blame to assign.