How to Mend a Friendship that is Broken

Many people pass through our lives. Some become acquaintences and some become very good friends. Unfortunately, even in the best friendships, sometimes conflict happens and the bond is broken. Outside of conflict, sometimes we simply lose contact with friends because our lives become so busy or one or the other moves away. No matter the reason we drift away from the friendship, we often still think of that person and would love to have them back into our lives. Friendships can be mended. How do you mend a friendship that is broken?

If conflict caused your friendship to be broken, you have to decide if it's more important to be right or be the bigger person and make the first move. The other person may be missing you as much as you are missing them. If there was a true friendship to start with, the chance of mending the relationship, is good.

If you know the friend's address, you may want to send a heart-felt letter. This gives them time to absorb and make a decision on whether they want to reestablish the friendship. Your letter should focus on mending the friendship, not rehashing the negatives. If there are issues to be resolved, this can be done after it's determined if the other person wants to make an attempt.

A personal call is good, also. It may be more intimidating than a letter because you take the chance of being hung up on or rejected...but, it may be an opportunity to hear that voice you've been missing, with a "happy you called" tone.

If you've exhausted all measures and the other person refuses to rekindle the friendship, you'll walk away knowing you did your best. It's possible they'll give it more thought and change their mind. The important thing is...you were courageous and person enough to give it a try.

If your friend decides to talk, listen to their side with an open heart. State your side with an open heart. The focus should be on "mending", not on pouring more salt into old wounds.

Embrace the opportunity to grow, forgive and make amends and you may find a better friendship than you had before.

"Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame by another human being. Each of us owes deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this light."- Albert Schweitzer