There comes a time in every relationship where you look at yourself in the mirror and ask, "Why are we holding on?" This can apply to relationships of various kinds; friends, family, and romantic partners. More often than not, the answer will come easy and be extensive. If the relationship is solid and healthy, you will have a million reasons you want to hold on. That's the ultimate goal. However, there may come a time when you look in the mirror, ask the question, and find yourself speechless.
I think this happens a lot in your twenties, a stage of life I am currently in. We change so quickly in this chapter. I often feel like I'm a completely new person every couple of months. Many of us want to embrace the new and improved person we're becoming, while desperately clinging to who we once were out of a place of nostalgia and guilt. Good relationships support change and growth, and evolve right along with you.
Most of the relationships I've experienced are good. My parents have always shown unconditional love, and many of my long-time friends remain supportive and involved in my life, even if they no longer live near me. However, there are some people I've had to let go. It's difficult, and it can be sad, but it is ultimately the right thing to do. Letting go of someone does not mean there is anything wrong with that person, and it doesn't mean there is anything wrong with you. It simply means you acknowledge you are heading in different directions, and maybe those directions don't involve each other.
It doesn't mean it has to end in an angry exchange of hateful words. It doesn't mean you have the right to talk negatively about that person. It doesn't mean you can't look back on the memories and smile. All it means is your life is different now, and so is theirs. I think learning to let go is a sign of maturity, and there is no reason to feel guilty about it, as long as you ended the friendship without hurting or backstabbing the other person involved.
I would encourage you to evaluate the relationships in your life, and consider shedding the toxic or unnecessary ones. Become the purest form of yourself, and allow your friends to become their purest forms too. Forcing yourselves to sync up will only do damage to both of you in the end. And who knows? Maybe, somewhere down the line, you'll run into each other and sync right back up again.
