The week of lasts is a phrase coined by my friend about my week. From my last days at my various workplaces to my last meetings, last days in my writing studio, last goodbye hugs with friends, this week is definitely full of “lasts.”
But you know me; I’m the eternal optimist. I look around and see so many continuations and even new beginnings. I say goodbye to coworkers who’ve become great friends and know it’s not goodbye so much as, “See you later on down the line.” Today, leaving my workplace of the last five years, a coworker remarked that I spent more time there than in college, which is true. But, daily now, I use what I learned in college. I apply the skills every day. (Writing degree.) Similarly, the writing studio may be gone, but the work I’ve done isn’t. And the energy I put into renovating that room, making it what it was, is all still here in my work. I bring these things forward.
And on my way to my friends’ house where I’m staying since selling my own house, my friends called to say their daughter-in-law just went into labor. (I can’t make this stuff up.) Even if I’d wanted everything to be last–and I don’t—it simply just isn’t. Life is a continuum; the new baby proves it.
It’s not a week of lasts so much as a week of lastings. All I’ve learned, the friendships I’ve made, the work I’ve done, the writing I’ve created, these are the things that continue to last.
~
My first book, Upside Down Kingdom, is available on Amazon. I’ll sign it for you.
This town is going to be much different without you in it. Somehow, knowing you were around was always reassuring, even though I didn’t see you much. I hope you get off to a great start in PA! Ihre deutsche Klasse Freund, Bill French
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We need to get that Elise ride in before you go.
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Yes, we do, Mike! Hmmm….
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Thank you, Bill! What a nice thing to say! I’ll miss you, friend. But I’ll be back in town here and there–I’ll let you know whenever I am. Until then, we’ll stay in touch online. Thank goodness for the Internet!
-J
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Even though we’re mainly “internet friends/colleagues”, I’ll feel a bit sad knowing you’re hundreds of miles away and I won’t get to meet you at Sontes to get a signed copy of your next book.
But hey, that’s as good a reason as any to visit Pittsburgh, right? 🙂
Good luck with your next chapter (of life).
Chris
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