I've had the same best friend forever. I remember first meeting her in elementary school. There was something about her that drew me to her instantly. We just clicked. She became a part of me.
Thinking and acting alike we shared many different experiences. Together, we celebrated numerous milestones, whether it was my birthday, first date, graduation, etc. No matter what was happening in my life, she was always there. We were inseparable.
I don't recall exactly when we became best friends. I do know that as the years progressed, I began to depend on her more and more. She knew me so well. She knew exactly what to say. Her words meant so much to me. I trusted that everything she revealed and said to me was for my betterment. It got to the point that I didn't make any decisions without her input.
But now... Something has changed. As we drive to work together, something feels different. I'm not happy to see her. In fact, I've been dreading that I will have to spend time with her. Lately I've become detached. It's as though I've outgrown her. I no longer have patience with her. My ears immediately tune out her voice.
My friend stares at me. I know that she senses that I have begun pulling away from her. She tries to hold on tighter to me by reminding me of the times we spent together. She reminds me of all we've been through. Se reminds me of what she has taught me.
A dose of reality, like having ice-cold water dumped on me, has stopped me dead in my tracks. This toxic relationship has resulted in so much negativity. I have to get off this road of destruction.
So, without any regret, it is time to say goodbye to my friend, Discouragement. Discouragement can no longer feed me. I have begun the detox. The truth and a change in my belief system have begun to make me whole. I have a new best friend, Encourager. We are a better fit and I am looking forward to a positive and thriving life.
