Every Sunday, I always read the column of Fr. Jerry Orbos in the Philippine Daily Inquirer to gain some insights and realizations. This day, he discussed Christ’s ascension and its impact in our lives. Part of his discussion was the question “Why must there be goodbyes?” I tried to answer the question first but I cannot give an answer so I just continued reading his article. As an answer to the question, he said “Because of mission. In everything that happens, there is a reason, there is a mission. All goodbyes, whether to things or persons, are reasons and/or seasons for moving on. Goodbyes should lead to greater mission, not stagnation.”

He is right. Goodbyes are reasons and seasons for moving on. We cannot hold on to something or someone forever. We need to learn to let go and to continue living life. It is never easy to say goodbye. But there are reasons behind that and we need to accept that goodbyes are part of life. Whenever we experience goodbye, we should not think that it is the end of everything. It only marks a new beginning, a new life…