We are moving. We are leaving Chicago. I am leaving my job. I am leaving my people behind. And I am suddenly very sad.
Up until today, I have embraced the good things ahead. Until today, I have focused on the tasks and the to-dos and all the steps that need to be taken to get to that next place. But suddenly today, it is different. Tears keep coming to my eyes. I have that heavy feeling in my heart. I am closing things up and starting those social distant goodbyes. And all I want to do is hug my people and hold them close for just one more time as my neighbor. And I am sad.
I have loved my life here in Chicago. I loved it when I was on my own. I loved the community of people I came to and the people that have filled my world along the way. Then I added Frank (and the dogs) and all the wonderful people he brought to my community of people. And then when Maria came into our home and all the incredible people who helped us manage that situation. The people I have shared my (our ) life with since coming to Chicago, have made it nothing less than extraordinary. It makes it impossibly hard to leave.
Calling Chicago home allowed me to be close to go home when my Papa faced the scariest time. It allowed me to show up and meet Gus and Jade within a day of the day they arrived. I was able to go home to say goodbye to an aunt and to my Grandma. Each circumstance a reminder of what is so very important in life.
Don't get me wrong, I know our Baltimore/East Coast life will be incredible, too. I know I can still come home to share in those important and special life moments. And I know we will continue to come back monthly for Maria, so this is a soft goodbye.
Today I am just mourning our Chicago chapter. It will also be part of our tapestry, as will the people. And for that I am grateful.
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