I miss my dog.
Holly, a fluffy white Bichon Frise, was my faithful companion for over 15 years. She followed me throughout the house, not too far behind. When I sat down, she jumped on my lap. When I went outside, she followed me. When I went to the bathroom, she scratched on the door, wanting to be let in.
Having been in good health most all her 15 years, she became very ill in April and we had to make an extremely difficult decision to euthanize her. As she quietly departed, my heart sank in despair.
Goodbyes are hard. I cried. I really cried, a lot. Now my home feels empty, especially since I work from a home office. She was with me all the time.
During our lives, we will experience goodbyes. Some goodbyes are painful while others are welcomed.
We say goodbye to lovely homes, cherished neighbors, good jobs and coworkers. We say goodbye to family members who move to another city. And we say goodbye to family and friends who pass away and leave us permanently.
These goodbyes are painful. They cause tears. Some are emotionally draining, and you don’t know if you will ever recover. But you do.
Then there are times you say hello. You buy a new home and are introduced to welcoming neighbors. You land a great job with a good boss and helpful coworkers. You buy a new car that’s under warranty, plus it has that new car smell.
In our careers, we must say goodbye too. Friends leave your company for better opportunities. Your position is eliminated and you’re forced into an unexpected job search.
Saying goodbye is a natural part of life. Pain is inevitable, just like joy.
I had to say goodbye to my faithful companion, but I know, once I’m ready, I will say hello to a new, loving, four-legged friend.
Are you saying goodbye to someone or something right now? Whether it’s work related or personal, the process of change is natural. Saying goodbye means you will again say hello to something else in due time.
I am wishing you the best with your goodbyes and hellos.
