Why I Don’t Miss You
Barring the use of technology to communicate across the globe, I realized why it is that I don’t miss the people that I love and care so deeply about even though I no longer have any physical interaction with them…
(at the risk of sounding cheesy…)
…See, I like to surround myself with friends who I respect and admire. I see qualities in them that challenge the way that I approach the world; they give me a paradigm that I strive to emulate. When difficult or unknown situations arise I find myself reflecting on what these individuals would have done and by channeling them, I find the strength to respond in a manner that is more becoming. By and by, I think about them and their good qualities so much that they eventually become a part of who I am. I mean, how can you miss your left arm when you use it every day?
How can I miss NK or K4 when I am ALWAYS trying to mirror their incredible gift for listening to others’ troubles with open, non-judging hearts? I have never met two individuals who can disarm complete strangers and make them feel at ease so quickly. I can’t tell you how much I wish I was a social worker sometimes.
And how about FH? It is slightly ridiculous how many times a day I think about her spirit and undying optimism. I have only to imagine her pretty face and deep, reflective eyes and I find myself in a happier place almost instantly.
Sometimes the impact is so strong that I feel I interact with these friends more now, in my head, than I ever did in reality. Take AB for example - all it took was a few monumental conversations. Now, in my moments of doubt all I have to do is remember that day in South Kensington by the bakery, right before prayers and I feel renewed. I think about how unapologetically confident AB is about the choices she makes and the beautiful person she is. I channel her strength more often than I’d like to admit. Can your knees do that for you?
Like my other 2000-some body parts that all serve a purpose and contribute toward my well-being, so do the rest of you. I wish I had the time and space to elaborate just how much a part of me your better qualities have become, but I’m hoping you already know :)
So the next time you don’t hear me engaging in the “I miss you” dialogue at the end of our conversation, just remember you are like my eyes, ears, nose, and pinky toes. I don’t miss you because I make use of you too much to realize that you are not actually here!
Thanks :)
