It is with a mixture of sadness and veneration that i write this particular entry today. My friend, Natalie is entering the Peace Corps. She has been assigned to my motherland, Jamaica, and leaves this week to start her training. Today, she and a few friends held a somewhat impromptu picnic outing at a local park. I went, thinking I would make a requisite appearance and take leave after a few words of well-wishing since after all, she’s really only moving away for a while (if you look at it from a practicaly standpoint). However, I was surprised because when it came time to say goodbye I felt a lot sadder than I do than when a friend moves away (be it for work or for marriage).

For anyone who reads this space (probably 3 people including myself) but isnt aware of this fact, Natalie is an unrequited crush of mine from years past (college days). As such, our friendship has had a few interesting periods and swings where its been very strong, and other times when it has been pretty weak… including a recent episode where it went from the former to the latter in the span of 3 minutes.

Nevertheless, the truth is that I have a soft spot for my friend (it takes a conscious, concerted effort for me to hold a grudge) and am extremely grateful that this latest parting, though temporary, was on such good terms. It means a bit more to me than I’ll ever admit 😉 .

Natalie, good luck over in Jamaica. Remember that the green in the flag is for the countryside, the yellow for the sun, but the black is for the hardship. You’ll be missed in your absence, but thought of (and hopefully communicated with) often.