Maya Angelou said, “survival is important, but thriving is
elegant. As I reflect upon the
difference between thriving and surviving, I ask myself about the difference
between a goodbye that is based upon survival and a goodbye that allows all to
thrive.
Almost nine years ago I left the employ of the Sisters of
St. Benedict. Although my departure
happened quite quickly because I secured another position, we engaged in what I
considered a gracious goodbye. During
those last two weeks all of us thrived. Time
was spent in celebration and reconciliation.
I think of the other times in my life in which goodbyes have
been accomplished while in survival mode.
The need to make a quick getaway overshadowed the opportunity to create
a gracious, thriving exit. Both parties
in those exits took the path of survival.
No one was more responsible for the choice of departure…it was the
conscious or unconscious decision of both.
A gracious goodbye is a compassionate act. It provides opportunities to let go of old hurts
and celebrate the good that occurred in the relationship be the connection
professional, personal, or somewhere in between.
Although a gracious goodbye may not be the easy path to
closure, ultimately it provides the most long term healing. This way of separation requires courage to address
the shadow and curious daring to explore the root of any suffering. In those moments of gracious closure, we
create the space for true intimacy to flourish.
With a gracious goodbye we do not end but live within a
transitional pivot point. This space provides
opportunities for us to move into newness.
With sure steps and our humble goodbye, we walk the path of
transformation.
Graciously, Courageously, and Curiously Daring,
Vanessa
Vanessa is a Intuitive Healer, Community Builder, and
Compassionista, and Author of Engaging Compassion Through Intent & Action
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