One of the best gifts we can give in conversation when reintroduced to people we've lost touch with is, “Tell me who you are now.”
None of us are the same person we used to be. All of us have grown and changed, having been shaped by the experiences that come with turning another year (or several) older.
If you’re still defining someone by mistakes they made years ago, chances are they’re still defining you by yours as well.
If you haven’t seen someone for a while and your paths cross, allow yourself the gift of being the first to extend the benefit of the doubt.
Originally published January 2015