When Friends Move Away

We have lived in this area for over twelve years. We have established our roots and call it home. However, it sometimes feels like we are in a minority. Many people relocate to this area for a specific reason, like a job transfer or for further education. Once the degree is earned or a promotion is offered, they are off to another place. We share their excitement for the advancement and the new adventure ahead of them, yet we also experience sorrow over the loss of yet another friend to a new town.

For example, three years ago our family had to say goodbye to the Browns. I first had the honor of meeting Sarah through our local MOPS group. Using her God-given gift of hospitality, she invited our family to her home for a meal. Sarah was a sweet friend already, but when we arrived and she served M&Ms and root beer, which unknown to her were Mike’s favorites, we knew this was the beginning of a special bond between our families.

That was the first of many shared evenings with the Browns as we played games and enjoyed time together. Zachary was certain he had picked his future bride in their daughter upon discovering that she loved playing with toy guns and swords as much as any boy he knew.

But three years ago, Sarah’s husband was offered a job in their home town in Alaska, so many miles away, and we sadly said goodbye to precious friends.

Last summer, we experienced similar feelings with the Armstrong family. This camaraderie was formed first between the guys, who worked together, but eventually turned into a friendship among everyone in our families. A couples-only trip to a NASCAR race and a 24 hour adventure with all the kids at our house when baby Ella was born were some of the best bonding times. When they surprised us one Christmas morning with goodies, I knew they had moved into a category beyond just ordinary friends – not because of the treats, but because they had seen me in old sweats with no make-up on and hair that had not yet been touched with a comb!

Just as we were enjoying fun family times together, he was offered a new job in another state. We found ourselves once again saying goodbye to dear friends.

It’s hard to find “family friendships” where everyone gets along so well and enjoys doing things together. The Browns’ and the Armstrongs’ relocations were felt very deeply in our home.

Another move this summer has caused much sorrow, as well. Nicholas’ best friend, Kaleb, moved across the country. The reality that he will not get to hang out with his friend anymore brings Nicholas incredible sadness, to which I can completely relate.

There is hope. Nicholas and Kaleb call and email each other regularly. I am thankful for internet and cell phones, particularly plans that include a list of family and friends that can be called at no expense. (The CEO of Verizon must have experienced similar situations.)

The Armstrongs are not so far away that they cannot visit and vice versa. They feel like long-distance family. We have enjoyed sharing our home with them several times since their move, and we recently had a fun-filled visit to their home. It was a blessing and a reminder of how much we miss their presence here.

And two weeks ago, the Browns visited and I saw Sarah for the first time in three years. It was a joyful reunion!

There is a greater hope as well. The Browns, the Armstrongs, and Kaleb are all believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. They all have a personal relationship with Him. This means that even if we are never privileged to see them again on this earth, we will be spending eternity with them in heaven. Nothing is better than that! And it gives us peace and contentment in the midst of the sad times when we miss those with whom we’ve shared a piece of life in this town.

“But I do not want you to … sorrow as others who have no hope. …we shall always be with the Lord.” 1 Thess. 4:13, 17b