When Precious Friendships Wither Like Autumn Leaves, They Scatter Seeds of Wisdom That Bloom into Unexpected Peace

Though wounds may sting like freezing Arctic winter, embracing friendship's ebb and flow is like watching a river carve new paths—each turn revealing hidden treasures of understanding and tranquility.

Me, in the wilderness of the Yukon | Photo by Maggie Leary

Last year, a close friend shared a deeply affecting story with me. They had maintained a meaningful friendship for five years when, without any warning or explanation, their friend completely ceased all communication. The sudden silence left my friend bewildered and emotionally wounded, searching…