How to Deal with and Mend Broken Friendships

Friendship is a treasure and sometimes, one or the other or both, does something to harm that friendship and the ties are broken. Sometimes it's a matter of drifting apart because of work, family or distance.

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.