Last night as I lay down to sleep, I was suddenly struck with the sadness of a changing relationship. My illustrator whom I had become very close with was now moving on to her next project and so was I. A picture book by Cori Doerrfeld quickly came to mind called Goodbye, Friend! Hello, Friend! It reminded me that saying ‘good-bye’ to one person or thing meant saying ‘hello’ to someone or something else.

I was also encouraged in that since my illustrator friend is a sister in Christ, I know we will always have a special connection. We may not share or chat on a regular basis anymore, but the bond we have will remain.

Friendships are treasures to be cherished. Consider taking time today to thank God for your friends or perhaps check in on a friend. Scripture says this about friends: “Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one’s friend springs from his earnest counsel. Do not forsake your friend…” (Proverbs 27:9-10a).

Yes, friendships may change but that does not mean they end. I imagine many friendships will be renewed and strengthened in heaven and there will be endless opportunities for new ‘hellos!’ This week, while we are out and about, let’s smile and be pleasant (even with a mask). Who knows? It may lead to a new friendship.