With the announcement from Pastor Lynn regarding her retirement and Michael's upcoming departure, I thought about the importance of saying good-bye and making the ending of relationships positive and meaningful. Fortunately the relationship with Pastor Lynn will not end, but it will change in nature and thus is a great loss for many and for this church family as a whole. And I know Michael will also be sorely missed.

We work with our interns at the center on providing a different experience for clients as they end their therapeutic relationships when internship is over. Most of us have experienced past endings that were either abrupt, rejecting or hurtful in some way. This often causes us to avoid our feelings around having to say good-bye. As this time of transition approaches, it is helpful to realize that every transition begins with an ending. Although difficult, transitions are opportunities for learning and growth. If experienced more fully, transitions can deepen our understanding of our selves.

Recognizing and expressing the range of feelings associated with loss and change; the sadness, vulnerability, fear and anxiousness contributes to a "good" good bye. Celebration of the successes achieved and expression of appreciations also make for a positive ending. Coping with changes and moving through transitions effectively takes good communication, astute listening, empathy, reassurance, involvement, a positive outlook and strong leadership. So, keep sharing, listening and working together as you   say good-byes, make adjustments and prepare for change.

 Submitted by Jody Pierce, Director, Pennock Center for  Counseling, 303-655-9065 Ext. 9