Relationships, like life, are not static.


Tonight I visited with friends that I have known for more than seven years. We piled into two vehicles and drove to Penn’s Landing for an evening on the ice, skating at an outdoor rink for more than an hour. Laughing, joking, conversing, and enjoying each other’s company, we cruised around the ice and then headed back to Barnes & Noble for some Starbucks coffee (and hot chocolate for those of us who disdain to indulge in the coffee bean). At this famous bookstore we partook of beverages and snacks, spending another hour+ catching up and just appreciating the opportunity to see each other again.

As I ponder upon the events of the evening, I am reminded again that life does not remain static. Relational interaction that was once common place becomes a savory treat enjoyed on rare occasions. Those to whom one was once closest remain close, but one realizes that the commonality of shared experiences has faded, and with it some of the bonding, binding relational ties. The sweetness of mutually enjoyed memories past is tinged with a hint of regret for the lack of memories present. Although rarely expressed in words, it is unspokenly understood that what once was is no more, and that geographic separation does indeed affect relationships (no matter how much everyone desires an alternative reality).

While my ponderings may read as being melancholy and sad, they are not meant to be such. Heartily did I relish the opportunity to spend time with a group of dear friends tonight! Thankful am I for the event coordination efforts of Derek in particular, and for the willing sacrifice of Mrs. Davis to drive most of us to the rink. This night will be long remembered as one of tremendous enjoyment, as I renewed friendships that I have irresponsibly neglected of late. In this vein of thought my words are meant as a commentary on relational changes in general, and definitely not as written ponderings dedicated to lamenting friendships that are no more (because they still are, gratefully). However, the fact remains that life is ever changing, and with it changes life’s relationships.

We must redeem the time we are given. None of us know how long we will be where God presently has us. None of us can predict onto what path God will next direct our steps. Although we as Christians have the blessed peace of knowing that our Creator desires our best and will guide us accordingly, the fact remains that we do not have total access to the map He has drawn for our lives. Therefore it behooves us to take each day and live it to its fullest, pouring ourselves into the people God has placed in our lives.

"See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise . . . "