the good in goodbyes.

I learned something about goodbyes. Sure, they're hard. 

But what makes them bittersweet and not just bitter? Where's the sweetness? 

A goodbye in one place is always traded for a hello in another. One tearful farewell is replaced by an adventurous meeting or a joyous reunion. 

I'm not really sure how to use the word "home". Sometimes it feels like a place. Sometimes it feels like it's with people. 

But the truth is, it's not even on this earth. And that's why I'll keep having bittersweet goodbyes and why "home" will always be a tricky word. 

 What's more, in John 16:7, as Jesus concluded His time on earth, He told the disciples,"But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away..." He was leaving to allow for something even greater. For a nearness that could only be experienced by His physical absence. 

I imagine that this was one of history's hardest goodbyes. But probably the best. 

That's why I'm convinced goodbyes aren't just good. They're sweet.