I have an old friend (childhood) and we have started texting yesterday. I want to make this work, because I shamefully have managed to push everyone else away. We both share common interests and I feel we compliment each other, if that makes any sense...

So. Please list as many as you can, about keeping a friend. Any tips will feed my curiosity.

Please and thank you

If they should stop texting for a while--pull back but don't assume the friendship is over. They may suddenly reach out again and of course you can reach out but if they have pulled back for a while try to give them some space but have faith that you will always have a place in each other's heart. Also, how much I instant message my fb friends goes up and down. I have periods of time where I don't message them because I just don't have much to say to them but when something comes up that I think will interest them I will message them again even if there hasn't been much communication in months. Keep in mind, these are long distance high school friends I am talking about. If your friend lives close then maybe you should make an effort to get together in person.

[emgreen]

I think the optimal way to maintain a relationship is to keep communicating no matter what your mood might be. I've lost many friends during my prolonged depressive episodes because I suddenly cut off contact due to isolation. When I bounce back, I often avoid restoring contact due to embarrassment. Despite the fact that I know my pattern, it's difficult for me to change it. If nothing else, the fact you don't have face-to-face contact with this person might make it easier to maintain somewhat regular contact via email. Good luck!