"It happens to everyone as they grow up. You find out who you are and what you want, and then you realize that people you've known forever don't see things the way you do. And so you keep the wonderful memories, but find yourself moving on"

Growing up can be a strange and eye-opening journey. You start to discover your own identity and desires, only to realize that those you've been close to for years might not share your views or paths. It's a bittersweet realization where you cherish the good times but also recognize the need to move forward.

This idea isn't new. It's a part of everyone's life at some point, often in young adulthood. Think about when you're transitioning from school to the "real world." You start seeing things differently. Maybe you loved hanging out with your high school friends, but as you grow, your interests evolve. Suddenly, what mattered to you back then doesn't fit with your current goals or values.

Take Sarah's story. She was always the life of the party in college, surrounded by a tight-knit group of friends. They did everything together—from late-night study sessions to weekend road trips. But after graduation, Sarah found herself drawn more to environmental activism. She realized that her passion lay in making a difference. Her friends, however, were more focused on climbing the corporate ladder and enjoying city nightlife. As Sarah got more involved in her cause, she felt a growing disconnect. They just didn't get her new passion. They respected it but didn't share it. And that was tough.

So what did Sarah do? She remembered the good times, the laughter, the camaraderie—but she also started seeking out a new community that shared her values. It wasn't about cutting off her old friends; it was about finding a balance and making room for new experiences.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, here's some advice: First, take time to understand what truly matters to you. What are your passions? What drives you? Once you're clear on that, it's easier to see which relationships still fit into your life and which ones might need to change. It doesn't mean you have to cut people off entirely. Sometimes it's just about shifting the dynamics.

Imagine you love painting, but your long-time friends are more into sports. You don't have to give up your friendships. Instead, you can look for art classes or groups where you can meet like-minded people. This way, you can still enjoy game nights with your buddies while also nurturing your love for art with others who share that interest.

Remember, growing up and changing doesn't mean deleting your past. It means integrating your history with your present and future. It's like adding new chapters to a book—each one distinct but part of the same story.

In a nutshell, as we grow, our paths can diverge from those of our old friends. That's natural and okay. It's about holding onto the wonderful memories while also being open to new connections and experiences that align with who you are now. Think about it as expanding your world, not shrinking it. Life's too short to stay stuck. So, embrace the change—it’s all part of the adventure.