The goodbyes have hit us heavy this month and last. Our family lives on campus. It seems like almost all our neighbors started their programs at the same time and are now all graduating and moving away at the same time. For our little neighborhood this has meant a mass exodus of many of my children's playmates, my mom friends, and my husband's colleagues.
It has been hard to experience the transient nature of our neighborhood so personally. Each of us has expressed our sadness differently these past few weeks, my two-year-old repeatedly stuck objects up her nose, hoping that it would bring back her friend's mom, who was a nurse. It did not work, and her grieving process ended in a trip to the ER!
Grieving our friends will look different for each person and family, but it is important to say goodbye well. This is a common topic discussed among missionaries, and it seems particular applicable to seminary students and their families in the summer.
How can we say goodbye well in seasons filled with much transition?
1) Actually say goodbye. Don't just avoid your leaving friends. Talk about how much you will miss them. Help them pack. Hug them. Wave when they drive off. Be present and actually say goodbye!
2) Have some fun. It doesn't have to be all tears. Have one last BBQ in your yard. Go someplace new together. Have a game night. Take some special photos. Enjoy each other and celebrate the wonderful gift of friendship!
3) Pray for them. Pray for their marriage. Pray for their children. Pray for their new job. Pray for them to continue to grow in godliness and love for the Lord. Pray!
4) Pray for yourself. Pray that the Lord would use even this sadness to draw you closed to Him. Pray that you would be thankful for good friends. Pray for your heart to not grow hard to welcoming new students and their families. Pray that these transitions would point you to Christ and our only forever Home. Pray!
By Lexi Zuo
Lexi is a sinner saved by grace, wife to Jeremiah, mother to three little ones, and an avid reader. She blogs regularly at www.MrsSeminary.com.
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