For a co-worker about to move away

For Veronika

When we’ve worked together for more than several years

We form a community and we may not even be aware

Of how much we’ve become a part of something

until the day comes when one or the other moves on

and then what we feel is the beginning of the absence of the other

And there is a sadness

For while we know we must move on

And we know that moving on brings all kinds of good things

We know also that there will be something missing

That can never be replaced because there is a uniqueness

To it all

And that is the gift

The gift we cherish

The gift for which we are grateful

The gift we will long remember

Doug