My friends are all leaving to a different posting.

I had the opportunity to appreciate so many things. I can't even find the words. All I have are scattered bits, like newspaper cut-outs, when what I want is a song, a score, because words aren't doing me much good.

The past seven months I learned to appreciate
- raised eyebrows and a smile that couldn't be hidden
- hugs
- post-call milo/starbucks
- random waffles
- random stories
- meals together

etc

the courage to stand up for what you believe is right
the strength to keep smiling even through impossible times
resilience

so, I know life changes like the turn of a tide
and that people come and go
which has always kind of caused me a lot of pain
but what is true now is that I am very thankful
really

And does the 'now' lessen my feelings' value?
Nah. I won't always feel the way I do now (thank goodness for that...) but I will always keep your names in a special place in my heart.