Goodbyes are Never Easy

Saying “bye” — or even “see you later” — is never easy. There are the little ones who don’t yet understand time or distance, who cling tighter and cry harder because all they know is that someone they love is leaving. There are the older ones, whose hugs linger a bit longer, because we don’t know when — or if — our paths will cross again this side of heaven. And then there are the family and friends who have become family, the ones who have walked closely with us, shared meals, laughter, prayers, and tears. Leaving them leaves an ache that words don’t fully capture.

Yet even in the sadness, we are deeply grateful. Grateful for every conversation, every shared moment, every reminder that love does not end when miles begin. Scripture reminds us that our goodbyes are held by a faithful God:

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” — Deuteronomy 31:8

We trust that the same God who knits hearts together also sustains them when they are stretched across distance. So, we hold our tears and our hope together. We say goodbye with full hearts, believing that God is at work in every farewell, every sending, and every promise of “see you later.”

“Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 1:6

Until our paths cross again, we remain thankful, connected, and anchored in Him.