I bumped into two women I used to be friends with at a music festival on Saturday. I’ll call them Sarah and Emma.
We all went to school together. Emma and I were friendly, but Sarah was one of my closest friends for years. We travelled around Australia together, stayed in regular contact, and she was one of my bridesmaids.
I was there with my children and passed them on a narrow walkway, so I stopped to say hello. Emma immediately hugged me, asked how I was and chatted about life/ her recent holiday etc.
Sarah was already speaking to someone else, which was fine, but she didn’t acknowledge me at all. She didn’t look over, smile or say hello.
After a couple of minutes, I said my son and I would keep moving and that we might see them later. Emma said they would call over if they saw us and meet my husband and other child.
Sarah still said nothing, so as I left I lightly touched her shoulder and said, “Sarah, lovely to see you. I’m sure we’ll catch you again.”
She looked at me and made a vague “ah, yeah” sort of noise. That was it.
We have had some ups and downs over the years. About two years ago I stopped initiating contact because her replies had become very short and it felt as though she didn’t want to engage. It hurt me every time. Since then there has been no contact, although I still occasionally like her Instagram posts.
About six years ago, I had a serious mental health crisis and spent around six months in hospital over a two-year period. Sarah and other friends did try to support me, and I know I wasn’t always responsive. However, I have seen her at several occasions since then (my baby shower, weddings, catch up dinners) and things seemed fine - she also asks my sisters how I am if she bumps into one. There was never any major falling-out that I knew of.
I completely understand that friendships change or end. This has happened me several times over the years people move/change but I am always pleased to see them/ say Hi. I’m not upset that Sarah and I are no longer close. I’m upset that she seemed unwilling even to acknowledge me or my child.
My sisters were there and both thought it was a very obvious and rude snub.
I would love to know what I did wrong but I don't think I ever will.
AIBU to think she deliberately blanked me?
YABU - She was having a conversation
YANBU - She should have acknowledged you