This past weekend, I lost the closest friend I had in this country. She left and went home for good. Now I can't discuss the circumstances for her departure. That's not what this post is about; it's about how I feel.
Have you ever met someone andhad an instant connection?
During training we are all forced to spend so much time together that naturally friendships are framed (some a little stronger then others). We had an instant friendship; I think it was due to the fact that we come from completely different worlds in the States, yet we found commonality in each other.
After training, our sites were relatively close to each other. We would go shopping for our necessities together. It would give us a chance to discuss proior week activities in site, and talk a little English, which meant a lot to us.
Saturday morning, I went with her to the airport to say goodbye. My best friend was leaving. I couldn't let her go by herself. The funny thing: I didn't have my passport with me. They are not suppose to let you in the airport witout it. I asked the man to make an exception in the worse Spanish I've used since I first got here. I assume he understood how important this was to me because he lt me in the airport.
I waited with her throuh all the steps. We even had our last breakfast in Guatemala together. (Thanks Subway!) When it was time for her to leave. we promised we wouldn't cry. After all, we'd see each other again in the future. We kept our promises and waved goodbye.
How sad was I my entire bus ride back to my site. It was like saying goodbye to family when I left the States. I know I will talk to her via phone and internet, but it won't be the same. She won't be here to remind me not to sweat the small stuff when we are out on one of our adventures. We've had each others' back for the last 5 months. Now I have to go it alone.
I know I will be fine, and time will fly by because I have forged a great friendship that i know will last. So for this brief moment in time, I'm a little sad.
Love you LAURIE!
The peace corp is the best thing that ever happened to my life. I love reading stories of the friendships forged through this corp, and the many experiences that people have during their time. There will be times of sadness, there will be times of happiness, there will be times where you won't even know how to express your feelings, but the main thing you should realize is: you are making a difference. Good luck on your journey friend, I wish you the best on your journey, and thank you for making a difference in this world.