My best friends live around the world. Each crossed into my life, changed me fundamentally, and continued along their path. For however long, months or years, we built the foundation of a beautiful connection. My favourite memories of my friends seem to take place in the brief period between day and night. For us, laughter and joy thrived in that in-between space. I remember deep conversations that stretched until the street lamps turned on. Or the days we listened to music while cooking our favourite foods. Even now, I reminisce these moments.
When the sky becomes hues of purple and pink, all I think about is my friends. I know at some point, the sun will make its cycle and dip below the horizon for them just the same as it did for me. They will sit and admire the beauty and, I can hope, think of me. The warmth in my heart at the idea is reflected on the horizon.
I don’t always get to say that I love them. Distance is hard and time differences are harder. Still, I tell my friends whenever possible how much they mean to me. I am proud of the growth I am privileged to witness through Facetime and Instagram posts. I watch as they live through bright afternoons and dark nights. Our phone calls might be peaceful or uproarious, but they are always the best parts of my week.
Sometimes our worlds collide when I visit their cities or they visit mine, and it feels like the clash of colours I see every night in the sky before bed. Brilliant, temporary, but guaranteed. We get to spend a few twilights together, making new memories I will immerse myself with when I miss them.
There is reunion in our future. So long as the sun continues to set, I will wait for our paths to cross again. In the meantime, I will cherish the parts of their life they share with me. Whether it will take three months or three years, I know that I am excited to see my friends again.
Dedicated to the people I love who live around the world.
Simone Brown 