Saying Goodbye

I'm moving at the end of the week.   I'm generally excited by the prospect of moving somewhere new, embarking on a new adventure, meeting new people, etc.  I love the newness of it all.

I didn't come to seminary or to Michigan looking to make a home.  I've moved enough times in my life that I was well aware of the impending and inevitable goodbye.

Still, moving is difficult.  Besides the fact that packing is a pain, besides the fact that I'm immigrating which means lots of paperwork, besides the fact that I'm moving over 2000 miles away from this place, besides the fact that I'm 100% ready to get to Edmonton and get my hands dirty....

Besides all that, I still have to say goodbye to the people who have weaseled their way into my heart and made this place a home.  I've only said two 'real' goodbyes at this point, but those two were people whom I love and will miss with all my heart.  And more goodbyes will come this week.

I hate extended goodbyes.  I'd like to get them all over with with one swipe, almost like pulling off a bandaid in one quick movement.  The pain is great, but its quick and goes away quicker.

But maybe the fact that it takes time is good.  It lets the reality sink in slowly but surely.  It reminds me of what I am losing, reminds me not to take these people for granted, reminds me of everything I have to look forward to.

Which is a lot.

And so I sit with a glass of scotch (which is sweating something terrible because of the humidity and heat and so is reminding me I need to buy coasters for the new apartment) listening to Simon and Garfunkel (who often soothe my soul with their joy-filled melancholy).