When I graduated high school, I was disappointed that I would no longer see my friends every day. I had moved my entire life up until high school, so being able to spend three years with them was the most magical thing. I was convinced that while we would, of course, make new friends in college, we would remain as close as ever. I assumed that I would want to still be best friends.
As my first year of college progressed, I was starting to feel…apathetic and disengaged towards many of my friends. I wasn’t quite sure what was going on, but something didn’t feel quite right. We still talked, FaceTimed, and seemed to be doing just fine on the surface. But really, we had all changed a lot, and when we talked, we were trying to be the same people we were when we were in high school. It wasn’t as easy as expected to just be ourselves around the people we had spent every day of high school with.
It was hard for me to accept that some of us outgrew each other. It doesn’t mean we don’t like each other anymore or wish negativity upon anyone; our lives have simply moved forward and in different directions. And that is okay. Our memories will still be cherished and we will fondly remember happy days and spontaneous outings. A few of us grew in ways that complemented each other, which is lovely, but it does not invalidate the others.
So, if you’re struggling with feeling like it’s time to let your high school friendships stay high school friendships, that is okay. Not everyone is going to be your friend for your whole life. You’ll grow up, and your values will change. Some will align and some will diverge. Fondly remember your memories together, but know that you’re creating numerous new friendships in college.
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