I want to see a friend I have not spoken to in a year. Which message do I send?

Option B is the stronger choice because it sets a warm, positive, forward-looking tone while still acknowledging the time that has passed. “It has been far too long” names the gap without making it the center of the message, and “I would love to catch up properly” conveys genuine enthusiasm and makes the friend feel valued rather than put in the position of managing guilt or offering reassurance. Both options end with the same clear, low-pressure invitation, so the main difference is framing: Option B frames the reconnection around the friendship itself and moves directly toward a positive goal, which is more likely to receive a warm response. Option A has real strengths—it is honest, self-aware, and accountable if the sender truly was the one who let the communication lapse. However, opening with “I have been terrible at replying” risks a heavy or awkward tone, may presume that the silence was entirely the sender’s fault even if the lapse was mutual, and can make the exchange feel guilt-driven or self-focused. It may also prompt the friend to reassure the sender before even considering the invitation. Option B therefore better balances warmth and acknowledgment while keeping the focus on reconnecting, though Option A could be appropriate in cases where a direct apology is clearly warranted.