Thoughts on Relationships

I have learned a great deal during these past weeks. Yes, they have been very painful, but they have also brought unexpected blessings. Solitude and rest have given me the space for deep self-reflection and honest self-evaluation. One of the main areas I have been reflecting on is relationships.

It seems to me that social distancing has taught us much—not only about ourselves, but also about how we relate to others. This period has made it clear that relationships (not only romantic ones) require effort, intention, and care. They do not simply exist on their own. We must be willing to invest time, patience, and love for relationships to grow and remain healthy.

Social distancing itself has been a sacrifice offered out of love. We have given up physical closeness to protect one another’s health and well-being. In doing so, we have come to realize just how deeply we need and cherish one another. I do not believe it is a coincidence that we are living through this experience. Even in the midst of difficulty, something good is being formed within us. We are learning to appreciate people for who they are, rather than for what they can offer us.

This time has given us a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be in relationship. We have been granted the opportunity to make an honest and loving evaluation of our current relationships. Many of us have realized how blessed we are to have authentic friends—friends who do not drift away in times of crisis or physical separation. Whether through phone calls, video chats, text messages, or simple words of encouragement, we catch a glimpse of who is willing to invest their time and love. We have learned that strong, healthy relationships are intentional; they seek one another even when circumstances make it difficult. When we are physically distant, we still find ways to communicate an essential truth: “You may be out of my sight, but you are never out of my heart.”

At the same time, this crisis has revealed a painful truth that can be difficult to accept. Social distancing has shown us that not all things unfold as we expect. Some relationships are unable to grow beyond where they already are. Continuing to invest time, energy, and emotional openness without reciprocity can leave us mentally and emotionally exhausted. Many of us hold tightly to beautiful memories of what once was. We may even spend significant time idealizing past relationships. Yet life gently reminds us of this truth: just as some relationships deepen and grow stronger, others naturally come to an end.

This does not necessarily mean that anyone is at fault—unless harm was done or separation was intentional. Often, it is simply part of life’s unfolding. Accepting this reality can be painful, but it also allows us to move forward with peace.

I believe every encounter has a purpose. Some people are meant to walk alongside us for a lifetime, while others are meant to journey with us for only a season. Their presence still carries meaning. Perhaps the purpose has already been fulfilled, and recognizing this can fill our hearts with gratitude rather than regret.

In the end, relationships are sustained by love. And to truly love means to be willing to offer freedom—even when that freedom requires letting go. Strong relationships will continue to grow through this crisis. Love does not fully understand distance; it finds ways to remain present. Love is skilled at bringing people together. At the same time, love also teaches us to accept what we cannot change. Some relationships call us into deeper commitment, while others invite us to practice gratitude, acceptance, and the grace of release.