The Goodbyes Arrive

It had to begin sometime. We can't say that we didn't know it was coming, but sooner than we were prepared for, it arrived. We have now begun the first in a long series of goodbyes. After one last trip down to the southern part of this long state, the time arrived when we had to say our first goodbyes before heading north, only to eventually head 6000 miles west. We had a great time with Eric's brother and his family - their girls and our girls are close in age - but all good things must come to an end, or so they say. I suppose that this farewell allowed us some grace to ease into the goodbyes still to come, parents, more siblings and cousins, and most to be dreaded, our sons. This time, we return to Guam with only half our kids - Christian now stays behind to begin his college journey and that walk down the road to complete independence. Fortunately, we've still got three weeks before the tears will flow. But, of course, even more fortunately, separation is only temporary. One of CS Lewis' friends recalled saying goodbye to Lewis. Of course, Lewis straightened him out: "'At all events,' he said with a cheerful grin, 'We'll certainly meet again, here - or there.' Then it was time to go . . . . When he reached the pavement on the other side, he turned round as though he knew somehow that I would still be there . . . Then he raised his voice in a great roar that easily overcame the noise of the cars and buses. Heads turned and at least one car swerved. 'Besides,' he bellowed with a great grin, 'Christians NEVER say goodbye!'" And all of God's people said . . . .