Not yet good bye

"Not yet good bye" this is the title of the email that my friend sent out today to inform everyone that he is leaving the company after close to 14 years.

It has been a sad day for me. He is a very close friend of mine and a mentor. We know each other for about 12 years now. He was my supervisor on two separate periods. He was one of the two reasons that I came back to work in my first and current company. He was the one who talked me into joining my first road race. He was the one who indirectly influenced me to join my first gym. He was the one who introduced me to Yoga and spinning class. He is my lunch mate, coffee break mate etc. Professionally, he is the one that I respect and look up to. He is also very capable and reputable in the company. For me, it is hard to see him leave.

Although I know that we will be still friends. But the fact that our direct contact will be reduced from daily to once a week or once a month, strike me the most. It is through these daily contacts and interactions that we share each other experiences as co-workers, our role as father, and many more that made our relationship as it is today. Yes, we can still call each other, email or interact via Facebook, but it is just not the same. Many of us depend so much on technology to keep us together with our friends that we have ignored the importance of simple human interaction that really build relationships.

Relationships, to me, is the most important thing in life. We have family, friends, colleagues and others. It is through these relationship that we learn, share, grow, and perhaps find purpose of our lives. Having good friends around me is something I cherish the most outside of my family. And good friend does not come easily.

I know he made his decision based on what he thought is best for him. It has been a very difficult decision for him. William, I know you will excel in whatever that you do, I wish you all the best, and friendship forever. It is indeed, "not yet good bye."