Goodbyes

What is it about goodbyes that make them so difficult? What is it that makes some people go out of their way to avoid them?

How does leaving without saying goodbye change anything? Is it just about avoiding the tears, the emotions, and the awkwardness? Alternatively, is it about avoiding something more fundamental, something more personal, deeper and more confronting?

Goodbyes are often a unique opportunity to say the things you never do, express the feelings. Bundled up with the hugs and kisses are words of love, friendship, thanks and best wishes.

Perhaps we are afraid of the rawness of these moments. Or our ability to reflect our own sentiments. An overwhelming wave of being inarticulate can choke things up, effectively hijacking what should be a shared moment of poignancy.

Does anybody like goodbyes?

How do you know if it’s a real goodbye, forever, or just a ‘see you later’ type farewell? Would that certain knowledge change your goodbye routine?

Do you feel bad if you leave without saying goodbye in person? What is it that makes us feel bad? Is it guilt? Is it because people feel they deserve a goodbye? Are entitled to it, indeed? On the other hand, are you able to detach and walk away without looking back?

Do you make a point of saying goodbye? Or do you prefer to leave knowing that no one is irreplaceable and that with time you’ll no longer be missed? Your footprints will disappear as the waves wash over the sand.

Do goodbyes ever get easier?

It is my experience that they don’t get easier. In fact, as I get older they get harder, but are something to be treasured (although I understand not everyone agrees Dana).