September 18th, 2009. I had a gathering at my house filled with people that I love. I never planned for it to be anything big. Just a small potluck dinner where people can chat and have their last moments with me. The first to show up (as always) is my best friend Aymara. She will be truly missed as her warm embrace and support can never be replaced. Next came BFF Sylvia, we call her "Mouse" because she's really the sweetest little thing. Soon after, amazing Tasha graced us with her presence. Around 8PM is when everyone started pouring in. Little by little, the Jimenez Family, Alan, Gina and Spencer, Amy and Dillon, Lydia, and of course Nina (with her cute niece and sister) all came in saying their last "good byes" before my big trip. What was truly great to me was that every single person who was there meant something to me. I was getting tearful towards the end of the night as I realized that it would be a while before I see these people again. Their smiling and friendly faces reminded me of how lucky I was to be surrounded by such greatness.
Richard Bach, the writer, said, "Don't be dismayed at good-byes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends."
This ringed true for me throughout the entire evening. I reminded myself that this is not the end, the goodbyes, the tearful hugs, the farewells, it is the beginning of my new life. And it is indeed a testament to the next time we meet again. Which is certain to be filled with precious moments, as we are what man truly needs more in his life than anything, true friends.
