Goodbye, Again
Earlier this week, we said goodbye to dear, long-time friends Alex and Sherilynn and their three kids as we left Tanzania. In our last few minutes together, we had a frantic 10 minute dance party, took some crazy PhotoBooth pics, and sniffled our way through hugs and goodbyes. Good times, hard goodbye.
This scene is very familiar to us this year — the choking back tears, having one last look, trying to focus on when (not IF) we will see a certain special family again.
I did not imagine that this would be a year of goodbyes. Goodbyes are not my forte (!), and it turns out that I have passed that trait down to the next generation. No amount of preparation or self-talk or rationalization seems to help. I know it is an indication of how we have touched or been touched in deep places, or wishing that the time had been longer, but it’s kind of like the saying, “Wrinkles are the trace of where smiles have been.” That doesn’t mean it’s going to be pretty…
We have found this year that we have a much harder time leaving PEOPLE than leaving PLACES. When we leave a PLACE there is a sadness (and I admit that a few of us may have shed a tear when leaving the Swiss Alps). But when we leave PEOPLE, there is a longing.
And after just 48 hours in Rwanda, we are longing for people we have already said goodbye to here. A great gift of wrinkles I wouldn’t trade for the world.
Your distinction between sadness and longing is so well put, Suby. Really makes me think. I love hearing from you on here!
xoxo
can’t tell you how many times the kids have reflected on our good bye with you guys! it was sooo sad! we keep laughing at the dropping of the mexican food, “truly Assssiaaaa… Malaysia!” how quiet the house is, and how lonely the spare bedroom seems! Everyone here keeps asking how you guys are doing… i think Dar was a good fit for you! :) On sunday we went out to Imbouja Island, and thought of you guys… the waters were actually crystal blue! i took pictures to show Jimmy! And shame on us for not doing coffee! anyway, DC will come soon! big kisses to you guys! We’re praying for all y’all ! :) xo