THE GIFT OF GOOD NEIGHBORS

The conversation about retirement communities and being closer to family has come up many times over the years with our next-door neighbors — people we have cherished since moving into our home more than 40 years ago. We even laughed about building a duplex or triplex so we could all stay together and grow old side by side.

Then reality struck. The moment I saw the “For Sale” sign in their yard, my heart skipped a beat. This couple had helped me raise our family, taught me the joy of entertaining, and even took care of the backyard snake! The thought of them no longer being there is hard to take in. The decision to be closer to their daughter is right. The change is hard.

And yet, growth requires change — whether in our bodies, our minds, or the neighbors beside us. Seasons shift. But amid all of life’s transitions, one thing remains constant – God. His character does not waver, His love does not cool, and His faithfulness does not depend on our circumstances. His mercy, kindness, wisdom, and justice stand firm regardless of what changes around us.

So, while a “Sold” sign may soon replace the one in the yard, no sign can ever mark the end of a friendship like this one. The memories made over four decades — the shared meals, the borrowed china, the quiet comfort of simply knowing they were there — those belong to us forever.

Read more here: https://mailchi.mp/91fd56f3391e/let-go-11043851