I've always dreaded goodbyes. The moment you stand enveloped in a hug, breathing in the essence of a person, wishing you could take them with you forever and always. Rocking back and forth, hoping to hold on, just another moment. Knowing the moment you let go means the moment you have to part ways.
It's worse when "see you later" is not a reality. More like "see you never." But we don't dare say those words. A dear friend goes back to Korea after a year of study here, another one heading to the Philippines, friends graduate and move across the country in pursuit of new jobs, marriage. And everything changes. Nothing will be like it used to be. It's part of growing up. And it hurts.
I have been learning this semester that everything is a gift.
everything.
So. Goodbyes are a gift. Because I have people to say goodbye to. Because I have people that have loved me, served me, poured into me, taught me, worked with me, led with me... I am blessed. I cry because I am so thankful that these people have been in my life. I cry because I am overwhelmed with the impact they have had. I cry because I am overwhelmed with grace... forever being given what I don't deserve.
I rejoice in the gift of Goodbyes. There is a time for everything. And now is a time of Goodbyes. I will rejoice. My eyes may shine with tears, my heart may empty, I may turn my face to hide my drenched cheeks. But I will rejoice.
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| My roommate and I got to meet Laura Bush! | | | | | |
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| Ice skating |
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| A winter weekend at home |
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| Friends from Korea |
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| Thea from the Philippines (center) |
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| Hall leadership team. Gaggle. |
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| "Terrific Trio" |
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| My RA and future roommate |
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| Future apartment! |
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| Epic Alpha Hall slip n slide |
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