A Stranger I Once Cried For

What do you call someone who was once a stranger, then a friend, then almost a lover — and now a stranger again? I’m not sure. Maybe life is just teaching me that some stories aren’t meant to last.

A year ago, I would have cried over this. But today, I’m okay. Funny enough, the universe gave me exactly what I used to beg for — a chance to see him again — right when I stopped wanting it. When the opportunity came, instead of feeling happy, I felt scared. My life is finally calm, and I didn’t want old feelings to shake it up.

We met in a room full of friends. It had been a year since we last spoke. My first thought? You look thinner. The old me would have asked if you were okay — if work was stressful or if something was wrong. But I stayed quiet. We said a quick “hi” and barely spoke after that. It was awkward, like we were strangers all over again.

On the train ride home, I thought about how much I’ve changed. A year ago, I would have cried, played sad music, and missed my stop while drowning in sadness. This time, I played my “shimmy shimmy” playlist (yes, that’s its real name!) and felt… nothing. Not even when our hands accidentally touched during a high-five. The old me would have written poems about that moment. Now? It was just a flicker.

The biggest surprise? I didn’t hate you. You were still charming, still smiling. But I didn’t feel sad or jealous. Instead, I was happy to see you doing well. Some people are like fire — beautiful but dangerous. We’re better apart, and that’s okay.

This reminds me of library books. You know the ones with pretty covers that seem exciting but are boring inside? I used to force myself to finish them, even if I hated them. Now, I return them early. But when I see those books again later, I smile. Hey, I remember you. I don’t blame the book for being boring — it just wasn’t for me.

Maybe you’re that book. Yesterday, I realized I’d already returned you to the shelf long ago.

No anger, no regrets.

Just a quiet goodbye.

Have you ever had a connection that didn’t work out, but you’re still glad it happened? Share your story below — I’d love to hear it. (And if you enjoyed this, my matcha addiction thanks you in advance!)