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Writer's pictureBecky Hayter

Rekindling Friendships: When Time Apart Brings You Back Together

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how friendships evolve over time—how they drift apart, or even end completely, sometimes to only to unexpectedly find their way back. We go through so many chapters in life, constantly changing and growing, and sometimes that means our paths with friends diverge. But I’ve learned that just because a friendship fades for a while, it doesn’t mean it’s over for good. Taking a break can actually create space for growth, and sometimes, when the timing is right, those friendships have a way of coming back into our lives in even better, healthier ways.


I’ve had this happen before and most recently with my friend Kail, which is why I'm sure some of you are here. We had a falling out years ago, and life just kind of took us in different directions. We didn’t talk for five years. Five years. But yesterday, for the first time in all that time, we reconnected. And let me tell you, it was like no time had passed. We clicked right back into our natural rhythm, laughing, talking, and just enjoying being around each other.


It didn’t feel awkward or forced. We didn’t have to pretend to be the people we were five years ago because, truthfully, we’ve both grown up so much. And that’s the beauty of it—coming back together now feels different but in the best way. We’re still us, but we’re also more mature, more understanding. It feels like a new chapter in our friendship, one where we can pick up some of those important conversations we never got to finish before. But we’re also just enjoying the lightness and fun of being around each other again.


Last night, we did her podcast tour together, and it was such an incredible feeling. I hadn’t done any podcasting in five years (ironically), and being back in that element—especially with her—just felt right. The energy from the crowd, the laughter, the connection—it all reminded me of how much I love being in that space, and how powerful it can be to just be present with someone and enjoy the moment.


I think that’s the key when it comes to rekindling friendships—taking it how it comes, letting things unfold naturally, and not putting too much pressure on where it’s going. Right now, I’m just soaking in the moment. I’m excited about the possibilities, but I’m also just happy to have Kail back in my life in a way that feels good and genuine.


This experience is not always what may be right for others: not every friendship deserves to be rekindled. Sometimes, a break is just that—an ending. And that’s okay too. But when the connection is strong, when both people have grown, and when it feels right, there’s definitely room for second chances. Life is too short not to give them. The time apart doesn’t have to erase what was there—it can actually create space for something even better.


If you're reading this and thinking about someone, take the chance—reach out. Offer the apology, start the conversation, and don’t let any more time pass than necessary.






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