Friendship has been one of the sweetest gifts in my life. I adore my friends for the unique qualities and personalities they bring to this world. Together we laugh, hold one another accountable, cry, support, and challenge one another. I hold my friends dearly, and because of that, I’ve also learned that when friendships shift—or sometimes even end—the loss can be very painful.

Cultural transitions touch us deeply. They can feel exciting, bringing new perspectives and ideas, but they can feel disorienting when they challenge our belief systems and lifestyles. William Bridges’ framework of Endings, the Neutral Zone, and New Beginnings helps us see that cultural change is not only external—it requires us to evaluate ourselves internally as well.

Life is full of change. Some changes are exciting—new opportunities, new places, new beginnings. Others are painful and even scary —loss, endings, or seasons we never would have chosen. When we’re going through transitions, it pushes us to let go, to live in the unknown, and eventually to step into something new.