Saying goodbye to a beloved friend can be every bit as heartbreaking as a romantic breakup. When the bonds of friendship have a firm grip on you, facing a goodbye can be a painful reminder of how much your friends mean to you.
My exchange student Lea returned home to Sweden a few weeks ago. In the time leading up to her departure, it was clear Lea had become truly attached to her American friends during her year living with our family. As much as she was excited to go home, saying goodbye to the friends she made here was very difficult. I have no doubt Lea will remain in close touch with all of us through the wonders of modern technology, but nothing beats an in-person visit or smile.
Don’t be dismayed at goodbyes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.
–Richard Bach
The tearful goodbyes were, in many ways, a testament to the successful relationships Lea built during her time here. Our family and Lea’s American friends will certainly miss her, but we will continue to maintain a solid bond built on the foundation of this past wonderful year together.
Goodbyes are a fact of life, and they happen for many different reasons. They are definitely not easy, but they show us how much we care and remind us how much we will enjoy our future reunions. As for me, I’m hoping for a trip to Sweden to visit Lea in the not-too-far future!
One of Lea’s U.S. adventures included attending a Chicago Cubs game with our family and Julia’s in April 2025!
Language of Friendship 
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