My step-mom is always telling me that people enter your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime.

Basically, she means that there will be an unbelievable amount of people that I will meet in my life, and it is up to me to determine why we cross paths.

• A reason: That person can assist me through a hard time and help me emotionally or even physically.
• A season: That person can teach me something I never thought possible and bring me more joy than I could ever imagine.
• A lifetime: I can grow with the solid foundation of unconditional love towards another person.

The hardest thing for me is realizing that some of the people that once made me happier than ever before, will someday no longer be a part of my life.

Like that handsome busboy who, on the spur of the moment, gave me his number and impacted my life in extraordinary ways. Although, in 15 years he may be out of my life completely, he came into my life for a reason.

I will always remember him for guiding me through one of the hardest things I have ever had to face. He would hold me, squeezing me with all the strength he had; somehow imparting his strength on me, giving me the courage to carry on.

But there are the people that I know will never leave my side, no matter what.

Like my best friend of 11 years now, a lifetime for some. She has been by my side, listening to every word I uttered, making me laugh when no one else could, and teaching me what true friendship really is. Even though I can say I hate her at most times-like sisters.

Every person I come in contact with is going to make a mark on my life.

They will cause me pain, bring me happiness and give me love. They will make me smile, cry, learn and grow.

It’s all a part of this crazy adventure called life. And in life, all kinds of people will enter our life. May it be for a reason, a season or a lifetime.

When we figure out which one it is, we will know what to do for each person.