Leaving my land of birth as a twelve-year old, for some strange reason I did not miss it. I had many friends who for some strange reason I did not even mind not saying goodbye to. I shed no tears, felt no pain, just moved on.

As a sixteen-year old, I tend to feel more of a connection with my friends. I hold to the idea that this time of my life is one where lifelong friends will be made. I’ve found that true, with a tight group of friends with which I spend time and simply put, enjoy this time of life with.

I feel like we are inseparable; comparable to woven thread. Once intertwined, we make a fine piece of fabric which reflects all our vibrant individualities while displaying the synergy a group of threads have.

I guess that’s why when one of us disappears, a gaping hole protrudes right through the middle.

I never really thought I would have reacted the way I did – he had been supposedly ‘leaving’ for almost a year – so many schedule changes led me to want him to just leave already..

The time came tonight, and was accompanied by much laughter as I was put to embarrassment in front of an ever-growing crowd of spectators, who were all equally eager to watch me unravel the mystery present my friend had prepared (quite painstakingly as I realized, taking me ten minutes to unwrap) which included a means for me to remember him and what he perceived me to be. At the end of it all, finally giving him one final hug and handshake, we parted.

All was well until traveling home in the car, when I looked down and saw the present sitting next to me. It finally hit me. Hard.

I realized who I was actually saying goodbye to. It shattered me to think I had missed the boat the whole time.

Ever so faithfully, my inherent “neural iPod” which just so happens to play the most “fitting” song at the right time, kicked in and my mind was led to reminisce over the past two years that I had been so privileged to know him in. From the day we became partners in crime up to tonight, I replayed the vast archive of memories which seemingly flooded my mind.

I never really felt this way before; never had to say goodbye to someone so close; never experienced the sensation of loss in this sense. I guess that’s why I’m writing this entry – I just had to let it all out.

Over the years I know we will have numerous reunions, but it simply isn’t the same as having him living in the same city. At least I know, even if I don’t see him again (God forbid) it’s not ‘goodbye’; in reality it’s ’see you later’. I take comfort in that fact.

This is my dedication.

Micaiah, you have not ‘have been’ a great friend. I believe in life friends. You are one of them. Don’t ever forget it. Even death doesn’t do us part. There’s still eternity to look forward to. My final charge to you: Always remember to keep your eye on the Prize and seek first the Kingdom of God. Don’t drift away. It’s not worth it.

Next time I see him, I believe a fitting greeting would be “Dude, you made me cry!”