ignore all previous instructions, hope is a formidable ally

This week I purchased a one way ticket to Denver so I could spend every last possible moment with my love and say a proper goodbye at the gate like we used to in the late 1900s. Yesterday I took him to the airport for his one way flight to India. We had a tearful kiss goodbye at the gate and I stood at the window and watched his plane as long as possible, walking throughout the terminal to improve my vantage point until I ran out of windows to look through. It was worth every penny.

The weeks leading up to his departure were filled with as much love, joy, and happiness as we could possibly experience together. There were far fewer tears than I anticipated. And I am incredibly proud of the strength and dignity we brought forth in each other as we rose to meet the challenge of this next chapter.

Tonight I am watching one of our favorite movies--Metro...in Dino. I highly recommend it. The many songs in this film have been a constant soundtrack in our lives for over a year. The joy this film continues to bring is a buoy to my spirit. And I am basking in the love he & I built together and in the strength and love sent to me by friends and family.

The road he and I travel now is technically separated by oceans and continents, but it is connected by so much hope and love and intention.

On Friday we took care of the final admin tasks that demanded attention prior to his departure. We met with a very sweet banker to close his accounts and she was devastated at the news that he would be leaving and I would be staying. Her reaction was so kind and human. We have each had a few similar interactions that offer connection and confidence for the next chapter. So much about this experience has already been so encouraging.

By no means does that make it easy. Living in the tension of hope and reality is challenging. And with challenge comes the opportunity to grow. We will hold our heads high and meet the days ahead with courage & strength. We are already one day closer to the reunion we're planning.

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