I thought I had said a proper goodbye to everyone before I left to study abroad. I hosted a dinner, gave lots of hugs, and wrote letters. But as the months here in the U.K. have passed, I realized there were some very important friends I forgot to say goodbye to, that I didn’t spend enough time with before I left. In fact, I barely learned their names.
So to the Douglas fir, Sitka Spruce, and Western red cedar, to the Sword Ferns, Salal Berries, and to all those who grow beside you: I am sorry that I didn’t learn to recognize you sooner — and that I passed by without asking who you were — I look forward to our reunion.Â
Now that I am over here, I won’t make the same mistake. I currently have the gift of learning beside the Manchester Poplar, Goat Willow, and Horse chestnut; I have the privilege of walking with the Bilberries, Midland Hawthorn, and many more new neighbours. Let me not forget to learn the names and faces of all those I have the privilege to visit.
