by Robin Nelson

My 13-year-old daughter had a very eventful sleepover this weekend with six other teenage classmates of hers. She is beginning a new chapter in her life.

This year has been a turning point for her; for the first time, she experienced losing her best friend because of their differences. It took me back to when I was a teenager, through college, and at the beginning of my adult life. My friends were always people who possessed interests similar to mine. As we began to find out more about one another, it would be our differences that pushed us in different directions. It is like that for a lot of people in their friendships and relationships.

As you mature you begin to realize that no two people are alike, and although you may initially be introduced by a similar interest, it is the differences that make your friendship/relationship truly special.

When I met my husband, we hit it off right away. We have a lot in common, but one big difference is age. If we had let that difference keep us from getting closer, and ultimately falling in love, we would never be where we are now. We would have missed out on a love that has changed our lives.

Some people tend to be afraid of what is different --- a different religion, a different race, or even something as simple as a different taste in music. Giving in to your fears of what is different only keeps you from living a truly fulfilling and happy life.

The advice I gave my daughter when her heart was broken after her friendship ended was to move on, because at the age of 13 there is so much more to learn. Never forget what you had with this friend, and always hold a special place in your heart for her. Remember that you will meet all types of people in your lifetime, never allow what is different about them keep you from getting to know who they are and possibly becoming life-long friends.

Surrounding yourself with people who think only like you is a bore. Open up to new people and new experiences, so when you look back you will never regret the journey you have had...