Everyday we say “good-bye”.  Sometimes it’s a quick wave, “See you later” kind of act. Other times, with family we leave with a hug and kiss. Mostly, however, in our daily lives, departures go unnoticed.  We slip out when the meeting is done…we’re finished. Or, at the Cafe, where we indulged in a delicious coffee drink, checked emails and Instagram, it’s time to move on.  We leave unnoticed. No big deal! Or is it?

When we travel a “good-bye” is much more apparent. “Good-bye” means leaving family, friends and co-workers behind.  Maybe they’d like to come with us. Maybe we assumed they couldn’t “get away”.

While smooshing documents and a laptop into a Carry-On, we’re completely engrossed in last minute details, applying make-up while in the car, talking on the phone to make sure details with a client are “buttoned up”, confirming a car rental.  Far from consciousness is the idea that it could be the last time saying goodbye…that the moments together whether it’s a big goodbye or not, are precious…that we have an opportunity to pause and appreciate who we’re with before leaving.

Of course, we don’t live thinking that there won’t be another tomorrow and forgo a good bye. In the days of Uber, goodbyes are easily taken for granted. Yet regularly expressing a thankful goodbye strengthens our relationships.  Driving a friend or family member to the airport is an endearing act.  It’s a way to acknowledge the upcoming absence and be with them, care for them before departure.

When’s the last time someone gave you a big good-bye? My husband insists on dropping off and picking up from the airport.  It’s such an act of love and feels really really good to be on the receiving end.  Sometimes schedules make it difficult to offer a ride.Rarely can we not find some time to say even the simplest goodbye.

Fortunately there are ways to coffer an Au Revoir everyday or for the bigger departures.

Here are a some suggestions:

Wish someone well.  No matter where you’re leaving from, stand, look around, and take a moment to reflect on the meeting, time over coffee, the place you’ve been etc… Breath and appreciate the interactions with a sincere goodbye.

Prepare Ahead. Sometimes a goodbye can be painful.  In these cases, it’s good to prepare ahead of the departure. Write a note (no need for a treatise here, only a few heartfelt thoughts) and slip it into their Carry On or hand it to the person with a hug or handshake.

Conversation. Consider the conversation you want to have before On Departure.  What needs to be discussed?  It’s best not to launch a contentious or complicated theme right then, during the last moments. Rather, find out what’s on their plate when you’re gone.  Even nicer, send a text upon arrival or as a follow-up thank you.

We strengthen our relationships when we don’t take them for granted.  When we get our selves organized without being in a flurry, we leave our loved ones in a better place. Make sure to allow time just to be with the person you’re leaving- without an agenda- just space and time that will soon end. Offering sincerity as well as help when needed makes the departure sweet with lovely lingering talons.

We will never pas this way again. Capture the precious moments the next time you or a friend and or family member are On Departure.  Don’t miss it!