A.

Connect! Please! Life gets busy. Long-distance anything is hard.

You can say, “I can’t believe it’s been this long, but I’m sitting in our hometown and wishing I could have dessert with you.” Whatever. Something easy.

I had a falling out with someone years ago – one of my only “friend falling-outs” ever. We were young. I said some unpleasant truths (in my opinion) about her impending marriage. They did not go over well! She demoted me. I was hurt. Etc., etc.

(For the record, I would not share opinions like that again, unless I was worried about someone’s safety.) 

BUT – years later, she showed up, and it was like, “Who cares what we missed? We’re grownups now.” 

We both love each other – and the same TV shows – and frankly, she’s happily married, and I was wrong. If I visit where she lives, I would like to see her. 

Sometimes a break – even if there’s no conflict – makes the reuniting that much more exciting. It can be easier to catch up when two people are in a different emotional place.

Worst-case scenario? She’s upset, which you can deal with. Or she’s too busy/not interested. A lot of people are overwhelmed by the idea of one more social thing, especially if they have kids.

But try it – and tell us what happens! 

I have a feeling this will be a season of people reaching out to old friends. The world is weird, and we’re looking for the loved ones who’ve had the power to make us feel good.

– Meredith

Readers? After this many years, how do you say hello? What expectations would you set for yourself? Have you reconnected with an old friend?