Arrivals are great. People are excited to see you. There are lots of hugs and stories to share. Arriving is coming together. But you can’t have arrivals without departures, and departures are not so fun. They mean goodbyes and tears. Departures are separation. In order to say “hello” to something new we must first say “goodbye” to something else.
Saturday the 11th I flew home to Oregon so that I could be in my dear friend Michelle (Howden) Saffeels’ wedding. I had nine days at home then flew out in the wee dark hours of the morning on the 20th. It was a whirlwind trip, but I had a great time with friends and family. Saying goodbye Tuesday morning was harder than I expected – Family is so comfortable (as is my marshmallow bed at my parent’s house).
Now I’m back in Korea and thinking about another goodbye that I’m going to have to say soon. I have LOVED living in Korea this year. It has been a wonderful time of growth for me in many ways. I have made great friends, taught adorable students, seen amazing things, tasted interesting foods – all of them fantastic experiences. But in the beginning of March I’ll be heading back to Oregon. I know this is going to be a hard goodbye. I am excited for the next stage of life and whatever God may have planned, but I wish saying hello didn’t mean first saying goodbye. The arrival will be great; I just have to endure the departure first.
*On a happier note, I vow to make these last couple months in Korea some of the best yet! And for more pictures from my American Vacation check out http://www.flickr.com/photos/scribbledjourneys/
