Bittersweet Pages

There’s something so achingly beautiful—yet undeniably painful—about closing chapters in our lives. Sometimes we don’t realize how deeply we’re rooted somewhere until it’s time to pull away. In these spaces, we meet people who shape us in quiet, unexpected ways. Some come and go, just passing through, while others leave fingerprints on our hearts that never fade.

We form unbreakable bonds through ordinary days, shared laughs, tired sighs, and the kind of conversations that start off mundane and somehow end up changing us. We learn, we grow, and we carry little pieces of each other as we move forward. What we often miss in the moment is just how much being ourselves—authentically, unapologetically—can mean to someone else.

Through my own journey of self-love and acceptance, I’ve come to realize something powerful: the simplest parts of me—the morning greetings, the fist bumps, the offhand jokes and warm hugs—were energy for someone else’s day. And in turn, being part of this team, this space, this community—kept my own battery going when it got low.

Yes, I’m just leaving a job for another opportunity. But when I stepped back, I saw it wasn’t just a job. It was a haven I needed at this exact chapter of my life. These people became more than coworkers—they became part of my daily rhythm, my unexpected family. We spent more time together than we did with some of our own kin. We endured, we triumphed, we vented, we laughed, and sometimes, we simply existed together—and that was enough.

Today, as I walked through that familiar place for the final time, I was met with tearful eyes, long embraces, and words I never expected to hear: “Thank you,” “You made a difference,” “I’m proud of you.” Some shook my hand with pride in their eyes, others held me tightly as if trying to pause time. And in that moment, it hit me—I had given so much of myself to this space without even realizing it. And it had been seen. It had mattered.

Only once before in my life had someone cried over my goodbye—but this time, it wasn’t just one person. It was many. That alone speaks volumes. And though some goodbyes are final, there are others I refuse to stamp with a period. So, to those I intend to keep close—this is not goodbye. This is see you later. Our paths aren’t done intersecting.

To those I may never see again: thank you. For the shared moments, the small kindnesses, the lessons. I carry you with me.

This chapter—this beautiful, challenging, unforgettable chapter—was never meant to last forever. But it found its way into the verses of my story, and it will live there always.

I leave now with a full heart, immense gratitude, and deep love for every single one of you. You saw something in me even when I didn’t see it in myself. Where others may see this as just another job—I can’t. It was purpose. It was pride. It was impact. It was family.

So, here’s to what was, to what will be, and to the in-between.

Thank you. I will miss you deeply.

With love—cheers to the next chapter.