Not every relationship we make is going to result in a romantic one and not everybody we meet is going to be the single greatest person in the world, but is that really so bad? People come in and go out of our lives for one reason or another and not everyone we meet is going to have an impact on our lives as a whole. However, for those that stick around, and the ones we come to care about more than we expected, is it really all that bad to just be friends? It's okay! Really, it's okay!
1. You Still Have Someone to Rely On
Above all, you cared enough for someone to believe that you would be compatible together. There was once a moment where you cared so deeply for them that they were the only person you felt you could trust or depend on. Whether or not you went through with expressing your feelings, at least you could look at that person and tell yourself they matter to you. Some people don't want to ruin the relationship they already have, even if they want to be more than friends, but there's no shame in just hanging out, having a shoulder to cry on, or having conversations about life as just friends.
2. You Can Still Enjoy Each Other's Company
You don't have to be in a relationship to love being around someone else. Just having them be in the same room as you is enough sometimes. Having the freedom to call them up and asking them to hang out or watch a movie or something is just as good, and it's less awkward if you're not trying to make a move on them in the process.
3. Staying Friends Doesn't Equal Rejection
Let's say you did express your feelings, but the response was the dreaded, "Let's just be friends." That means more than you think it does. More often than not, people say this because they still care about you enough to keep some type of relationship! Sure, it hurts that they don't want to be anything more than friends, but they also told you that they don't want to lose you as valued friend. Yes, it might be awkward for awhile, but after the storm passes over, you might realize it was for the best.
4. In the Long Run, It Was Probably for the Best
Not every relationship we pursue is going to work out. It may seem hopeless after a certain number of rejections, but don't we often look back and go, "It wouldn't have worked out anyway."? Sometimes, whether we like it or not, rejection is life's way of saving us a lot of future grief. Prime example being a break-up; you two had a great relationship before and during the time you were together, but then something happens and you not only lost a partner, but a best friend, a companion, a part of you. Sometimes we need rejection to keep us from losing what we care about most.
5. There's No Such Thing as Too Many Friends
Who said beings friends was such a bad thing, huh?
