Goodbyes are never grand

I still recall that last memory of a yellow cab numbered 8692, taking away from me the people who had been a prominent part of my life for the last nine months. I wanted to stop the cab, but no. I thought of running to the gate and saying goodbye once more, but I instantly realized the futility of my thought. It took me at least another 10 seconds (or so) to realize what had hit me. The people, who had been constant pillars of support for the last 9 months, were no longer there. As I turned back slowly on the cemented path, the bright morning sun made me feel exposed, naked and, well, quite frankly, incomplete.

When I had come to Joka in June last year, never had I imagined what was in store for me. I was a little skeptical, to say the least, about my decision to quit my job and coming to Joka for an MBA. However, as I realized over the course of the year, things turned out rather well. Really well. For, in a couple of weeks, I found myself amongst a group of people, who I could instantly mix with, friendly, smart, talented, fun-loving you name and they were all of that. And I could personally connect with each one of them, for different reasons and at so many different levels. To their credit, they took me in with open arms, and gave me a year, which I shall never ever forget. They mocked me, made fun of me, pampered me, laughed at me, laughed with me, took care of me, and held my hand every step of the way. So much so, that post the summer placements, I would, daily, be raring to get back to them in the evenings, for I knew that good time was in store. But as they say, all things, no matter how good, must come to an end. And time flew by. The extra-academic work made the time seem even shorter. Nonetheless, the quality of the time we spent together never deteriorated. Each time was as good as the last, if not better. I can still recall most of those late night-early morning sessions, the constant banter, the intoxications, the birthday bashes (where I would be the constant photographer) and a lot more.

Now as I look back at the good old days, I know I am going to miss them next year. I know I’ll not have the same set of people around. But I also know that I have gained, lasting friendships and some really wonderful memories to cherish for a lifetime.

As I bid them farewell, I realize once again, that goodbyes are never grand, they are not meant to be. But goodbyes are also not the end; they are merely promises to meet again in future, in a different place, at a different time.