How does one say "goodbye"?

 

I've had to say goodbye to some very important people in my life before....

I've said goodbye to friends as they moved on....

I've said goodbye to people that I lived and worked with very closely...

 

And I'm convinced that the process doesn't get any easier.

 

So many emotions.

So much to process.

 

These little people have not only wrapped their dirty arms around my neck, but they have wrapped themselves around my heart. I love seeing how they faces have changed since I have been here. They used to be shy or just wanting the attention of the moment. Now their faces light up with recognition and love when they see us come to the village. And as soon as they see us, they come running and screaming "ni kru, ni kru" ["teacher, teacher"] and waving. 

I have seen how they have loved and welcomed me into the community and saw me as some form of a stablity in their lives which know very little stability. Then I watched as their faces got so sad when they heard we are leaving this week. {I will never forget one little boy's face when he heard.....he turned and looked at me with the biggest, saddest puppy-dog eyes I have ever seen. He was sooooo sad...It broke my heart....Don't worry, I have made sure that he has got lots of extra love and attention [and extra treats!] after that! :) Oh, how I will miss him!}

 

 

 

The words from Sara Groves' song "I saw what I saw" keeps running thru my head....

 

I saw what I saw and I can't forget it
I heard what I heard and i can't go back
I know what I know and I can't deny it

 

something on the road, cut me to the soul

your pain has changed me
your dream inspires
your face a memory
your hope a fire
your courage asks me what I'm afraid of
and what I know of love

 

I say what I say with no hesitation
I have what I have but I'm giving it up
I do what I do with deep conviction

something on the road, cut me to the soul

 

your courage asks me what I’m afraid of
your courage asks me what I am made of
your courage asks me what I’m afraid of
and what I know of love
and what I know of God