I'm at a loss. Torn, quite literally. My best friend in the whole world, the one who knows me inside and out and expects nothing but what I am, is moving away. Away from the life that she hates, to find some solace and to plan for her future. For that I am happy. But for myself I couldn't be sadder. A sinking feeling has replaced the joyous bubbles I usually have when thinking of her. It will pass in time, and I'll learn to live with knowing her only through phone, text, and chat. It's said to be temporary, 6 months at most. Big changes for her will come during and after that time. Where I'll fall into the new construction remains to be seen... and I'm only a little worried about becoming part of the woodwork. I'll always have my friend, relationships change... but unfortunately I'm too experienced in the loss of love. I can't help but brace myself for the worst, while hoping for the best. The challenge comes in avoiding self-sabotage for self-protection. I'm etched permanently with cherries to remind me of her... and should the worst happen, they'll remind me at the very least that I am capable of hoping.