Ever find yourself shoved out of the friends "group" or even forgotten when everyone else seems to be going out? You aren't alone. If you're the friend who's always forgotten or replaced you know what I mean. Your Facebook and Twitter timeline are full of group events that you were inevitably left off of the list for. You find yourself being slowly edged out to never hear from anyone again. Sometimes, it's your own fault. You don't push hard enough to keep in touch and things slide from there. Often times though, it's just through the simple fact that you can be replaced.
So how does that happen? You're there for someone through thick and thin. You're always there to lend an ear. You're reliable. It's that very fact that keeps you around but it's also the downfall of the friendship. As time goes on, people know that you'll always be there and so they take that for granted. They edge you out as they find a newer friend or a friend that they might have a little bit more in common with. Slowly but surely, this happens with most friendships but it's okay.
There's nothing wrong with being the friend that can be replaced. At some time, your friendship played a pivotal role. You may have helped that person get through a really rough time when it seemed like they had no one to turn to. You may have brought two people together who will be forever friends because you introduced them. You may even have helped them to find out who they are and helped them grow as a person. All of that amounts to a little bit of good done and a true, honest friendship in each. They may have even helped you grow and to change into a better version of who you want to be.
Every friendship is a learning possibility. While it may hurt for a while when you realize that you've been replaced or you may feel lonely for a bit, you can be reassured that new, unique friendship will blossom to fill the void. Being the loyal, dependable friend brings its own benefits as well. You'll always be the first call when something exciting happens. You know there's always another person who needs your friendship.
In short, just because you feel replaced or forgotten, doesn't mean that your friendship didn't mean anything. There are numerous factors that go into the reasoning behind a friendships end. Sometimes, it's best to just let the friendship end or fade. You know you'll be okay and the empathetic side of you will find them again if they need you. Don't let anyone take that spark that inspires you to help people and give them a person to lean on. Keep your chin up and know that it isn't personal. Know that you've done something exceptional.
