If you're lucky,

'leave taking' is exhausting.

Because beyond the outward trappings of

balloons,

well wishes,

 presents,

 charming cake,

and gorgeous flowers 

there are the Goodbyes.

In my case, 

 to, literally, hundreds of people, 

in almost every department of the hospital;

folks who have been integral parts of

my job.

Young friends

 as well as 'seasoned' friends.

 Goodbyes 

over and over and over 

for days.

Goodbyes in which I hoped to convey,

but probably fell short, 

of saying 

how much I've appreciated 

each persons presence in my life;

how knowing them made a difficult job that much easier;

how I couldn't have done it without them.

Then, if you're lucky,

it also entails standing there 

as they tell you what a difference 

you've made in their life;

how much they've learned from you

and how hard it is for them to think

of having to work

without your help and support.

If you're lucky,

you'll allow yourself to hear their words,

 and truly believe,

that you have made a profound difference;

that children are alive today because of your efforts

and that the people who do some of the hardest jobs in the world

love you 

and respect your opinion.

 

If you're lucky,

as much as it may feel like 'abandoning ship',

you'll leave pieces of your work life behind

and walk out the door for the last time.

I was one of the lucky ones.

And then, 

this morning,

a new day began.