I recently helped my friend move some stuff into their new apartment. They aren't moving far away or anything, but this still felt like a big step since this was their first apartment. I've known this friend for as long as I can remember, so seeing them take this important, adult step really hit me right in the feels. There were a few emotions that I felt while helping out, and I imagine you'll feel them too whenever you do the same (or, if you've already helped your friends move, you've felt this way too).
Here are five emotions you feel when helping your friend move:
1. Pride
Of course you're going to feel proud of them! This is a big step, and you're going to feel so proud of them for taking it. This friend is growing up and learning how to become a responsible, independent adult. You may not have really seen this side of your friend before, but you always knew they had it in them. You might even feel like a proud parent, helping them along over the years to become the person that they are today. Now you get to be a part of that wonderful experience, and you wouldn't trade it for the world.
2. Fear
With this big step comes a lot of fear, and your friend won't be the only one feeling it. You're going to be scared for their safety since they've never been alone before: will they be okay, will they need help, will they make it in this world? You may also fear for your friendship: will they get busy and forget about you, will you grow apart, will they feel you aren't mature enough or adult enough to spend time with? All these things will run through your head, even if you're as happy as you can be for them. It's okay to be nervous and a little fearful, but be sure to stick by them anyway. Don't assume anything - just be a part of this wonderful experience and let them know that you'll always be their friend, even if they move away.
3. Sadness
You're going to feel sad. It's okay. Especially if your friend is moving farther away than you'd like, you're going to feel like you're losing something. I guess it's a sense of mourning for your lost youth, if that isn't too dramatic or poetic. Your younger years together are over. You're adults now, and things won't be the same. It's okay to be a little upset about that. It's hard for everyone. Again, though, stick by your friend and look forward to this new stage of your friendship.
4. Anger
This isn't really something that I personally felt in my experience, but I wouldn't be surprised if some people felt this way, especially if their friend were moving far away. You may feel angry with your friend for leaving you, and you may even feel betrayed. Even if you're genuinely happy for them, you may feel a little resentment: why did they have to grow up before me/without me, why did they have to leave me, are they just going to forget about me after everything we've been through? These are hard questions to face. Some of that anger may come from the fear or sadness you may experience. It'll be tough, but your happiness for them will drown out those feelings if you remain realistic and remember that they have their own life that they have to live - that doesn't mean they're leaving you behind on purpose.
5. Joy
At the end of the day, this is the feeling that will triumph over all the rest. You're going to share something life-changing with your friend, and you're never going to forget it.
At the end of the day, this experience isn't about you or me - it's about the person who is making this difficult transition. Be there for them and help them, even if you feel sad or bitter. Yes, sometimes friendships grow apart, and moving away can make that happen, but why not enjoy what you have now and celebrate with your friend? You'll be glad you did!
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