The other day, we were discussing friendships, and someone mentioned how some friendships shift when the initial reason that brought you together is no longer present. She gave an example: if you met in a book club and bonded over reading, but then one of you no longer enjoys reading, the friendship might naturally change—unless you find other shared interests. (emphasis on might because this doesn’t apply to everyone.) Or if you were close in high school but then went to different colleges/universities, it might be hard to maintain the same connection. Or if you’re doing different things and are just at different stages in life.

As “common sense” as it seemed, I never quite saw it from that perspective, so her words gave me a lot of clarity. I realized that sometimes, the love and respect between friends remain, but the friendship itself changes. And you know what? That’s very much okay. Just like everything in life, friendships too have their seasons, and they may not look the same as they once did. Yet, they can still exist in a different form, and the bond can continue with love and respect. (but sometimes they end too, and that’s okay too but right now we’re primarily discussing shifts and changes in dynamics).

This idea really resonates with my own experience. I have a friend I was once very close to, but over time, we both developed new interests and naturally gravitated toward different people. Initially, it felt uncomfortable and unfamiliar, I wasn’t sure how to navigate the shift. But looking back now, I realize the love was never lost—our dynamic simply evolved. I can appreciate the friendship we had then, and I also appreciate what it is now.

What brings me the most joy is that we’re both happy in our current paths. She’s formed solid friendships that bring her fulfillment, and so have I. There’s no resentment, only happiness for each other. I’m so happy for her growth and for mine, and I can truly celebrate the new friendships we’ve both made.

I’ve come to see that every change in my life, including the way relationships shift, is part of Allah’s divine wisdom. Some friendships are meant to last a lifetime, while others serve a purpose for a particular season & some dynamics shift - nothing is out of place, and Allah makes no mistakes.

As Muslims, we are taught to extend grace, mercy, and understanding—to ourselves and to others. Change is inevitable. We grow, evolve, and sometimes outgrow certain connections, and vice versa. It’s okay to have differences, to walk separate paths, or to acknowledge that the bond may not be as strong as it once was. The love and respect can still remain, even if the dynamic has shifted. We should be kind and cherish the moments we’ve shared with others. They are all valuable pieces of our unique journey, and so are we to theirs.

Hold space in your heart for both new connections and evolving relationships. For those whose dynamics have changed, be grateful for the moments you’ve shared, and learn to be content with whatever Allah has written for you, knowing that He is the best of planners. Be grateful & graceful.

Thank you for coming to my ted talk.

XoXo, AR 💌

(feels like i’m sealing a love letter haha.)