There is a saying that life is a series of hellos and goodbyes. This is only natural in a world wherein nothing is permanent and all is passing fleeting. A few days ago, we welcomed 2024 with hope. Also, we looked back at the past with all the joys and pains, ups and downs, good times and difficult times. We also look back to the people that we had said hello to and to the people we had goodbyes with. 

In a life wherein nothing is permanent and all is fleeting, I guess the words of Teresa of Avila say it most accurately: “Let nothing disturb you, Let nothing frighten you, All things are passing away: God never changes.”

In the Gospel, this was the message of John the Baptist: God is with us. Hence in a life wherein nothing is permanent, always be hopeful:

1. We pray and hope that our loved ones be given eternal peace and rest. No matter what the circumstances of the goodbye, this is not the end. There is eternal life. 
2. We pray and hope our loved ones have left this world better. We were all given a mission and have been blessed with time, talent, and treasure.  Hopefully, our lives bore fruit – 30 fold, 60 fold, and 100 fold.

3. We pray and hope for ourselves. Goodbyes will always be a part of life, but the mere fact that we are given this new year is because God still has a plan, and purpose for us. Hence, we move forward carrying in our hearts the memories of the loved ones who moved on.

In closing let me share a quote about life, goodbyes, and hope. 

“The story of life is faster than a wink of an eye. The story of love is hello and goodbye and until we meet again.”