Pause and consider…In your daily life how do you express Good-Bye?
You’ve made a choice to leave. You have the good fortune to travel. Although others will wish you “Bon Voyage” (“good journey” in French), as the traveler, you have responsibility for those unable to travel.
My first experience with the phrase, “Bon Voyage”, was when my dad invited friends to board the SS France for a party ahead of our departure. We were crossing the Atlantic. My parents’ cabin was packed with friends including some my age (9). After the revelry the guests left the ship and went to the dock. A large ship leaving port is an experience to witness. With the big sound of the ship’s horn, I remember looking down from the deck searching for my friends in the waving throng. Bon Voyage! Bon Voyage! Everyone enthusiastically waved, wishing each other well.
It seemed that the ones leaving, the travelers, were the luckiest to cross the ocean aboard a beautiful ship. As a young girl I was oblivious to how it might have felt to be left behind; although perhaps I wished that my generous friends could come along too.
We say “Hello” and “Goodbye” everyday on life’s journey. What does it feel like to be “left behind”? Departing is a two-way passage. Most likely it’s not easy when someone leaves.
A Deliberate Good-Bye
Dad’s “Bon Voyage” party was a deliberate (and fun) Goodbye. When we leave we want to notice our friendship and let family and friends know that we’ll miss them. We appreciate them.
Say goodbye with intention.
Leading up to departure we might:
- Offer extras hugs and kisses;
- Express your love (hint: if you can, pick up the phone. There’s nothing like hearing a voice);
- Leave a few hand-written notes;
- Send a few extra texts or emails;.
- Thank those who make your life full (including neighbors);
- Consider what you might do to augment the care for your loved ones and community while away. My “Go to” is usually grocery shopping to make sure there is plenty of food at home.
Two days until departure and, of course, saying Good-Bye…How lucky to travel! How lucky to have those who care about you! We can often take relationships and opportunities for granted. When we say good-bye with intention it offers a chance to pause, notice and express goodwill for communities on all sides of the world.
As part of IWorld of Travel’s 30 Perfect Strangers season 7 FAM to Greece, I’m so excited to extend my summer island hopping the gorgeous Greek islands aboard the Elysium, a Premium Boutique cruise ship that blends wellness and immersive travel.
Yoga at sunset? Massage? Meditation? Mediterranean diet? All this and more! Hosted by IWOT’s CEO Michael Gelber who knows how to host a great FAM!
Come with me on my Grecian odyssey! I would appreciate your company… on LinkedIn, Instagram (@spiritroadtravel) or Facebook (AmyStifelQuinn).
How do you express Good-Bye?
