Saying Goodbye

Today one of my best friends left to serve a mission for my church for the next two years. I was able to talk to him for the last time on Monday, and even though I haven't seen him for over a month, it was still hard to say goodbye. For the next two years the only form of communication we will have is writing letters to each other.

But what does 'goodbye' really mean? Goodbye implies the end or loss of something: a conversation, an activity, maybe a friendship or relationship, or even the death of a loved one. But after thinking about this for a bit, I realized something.

Goodbye is not the end. It is only just the beginning. The beginning of a new chapter of life. The beginning of growth, learning, and development. The beginning of new friendships and experiences and interests. The beginning of a new you.

Even though at times they may seem hard, goodbyes really aren't that bad after all. And even though I won't be able to see my friend for the next two years, I know that it is completely worth it. It gives me a chance to grow and become a new and better person. In a way, it almost seems refreshing.

People in our lives come and go. I've lost good friends in the past, but when I look back, every single time it gave me a chance to become stronger and meet new people that maybe I never would have. When I left home to go to college, I had to say goodbye to my friends, my family, my bedroom, my home, and so many more things. But like I said before, it was worth it because I know that this is where I am supposed to be.

So even though I had to say goodbye to one of my best friends this week, I am saying hello to new experiences, friendships, and a whole new me. And when I look at it with that perspective, I actually get excited. The future holds so many great things that there's no reason to look back. I only have reason to look forward.

And another thing I've learned is to always stay positive, and keep smiling :)

"It all works out. Don't worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out. If you do your best, it will all work out. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us."