Noah Webster's 1828 dictionary defines "friend" as "One who is attached to another by affection; one who entertains for another sentiments of esteem, respect and affection, which lead him to desire his company, and to seek to promote his happiness and prosperity; opposed to foe or enemy."
This may be a different definition from what many of us would give. We all have more acquaintances than true friends in our lives. A true friend will be there when you need them and will walk alongside you when you experience a tragedy or critical illness. There is a bond with a true friend that one doesn't have with an acquaintance. Each friend I have has added enjoyment to my life.
In the Crestview area, it is common for our friends to move away due to military reassignment.
This may be a joyous occasion for them — a new rank, new duties, a new home, a new adventure — but it is sad for us, and difficult to say goodbye and watch them leave. Jim and I have seen many of our friends leave Crestview since we moved here over 10 years ago. No matter how wonderful the reason for the move, it hurts to lose a friend to distance.
The flip side to that is how many of our friends have had to say goodbye to us. We have moved extensively and had to leave our families, church families, and our close friends. We stay in touch with cards, emails and the phone, but it isn't the same as being able to run out for a cup of coffee or lunch. In most instances, distance seems to change the dynamic of the friendship.
I am fortunate that I still have my best friend from childhood in California. She and I have been through many things and we are still very close.
Treasure your friends and the time you have to spend with them. Pick up the phone and tell them you are happy for their friendship; make time to go out for that cup of coffee. One never knows when they may have to move.
Janice Lynn Crose, a former accountant, lives in Crestview with her husband, Jim; her two rescue collies, Shane and Jasmine; and two cats, Kathryn and Prince Valiant.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Handling friendships and goodbyes