Farewell to a family of friends in Athens

Yesterday I watched four of my dearest friends -- I don't even know if "friend" is an appropriate word; they are so much more than that, they are my family -- walk away from our life together here in Athens. Tomorrow it will be my turn.

I have grown up in this place, have stepped into what I've always dreamed about and wanted and who I've wanted to be; or at least I'm closer. I have been loved and loved deeply here, more than I knew was possible with people to whom I'm not related. I have experienced becoming a true family with the people with whom I live, of being a piece of it that is irreplaceable, as each of them are.

I am grateful beyond words for this experience and these people, for this goodness and this beauty. The depth of love I have known here is what makes it hurt so much to leave. And so, I wouldn't trade this pain for anything.

The other day I came across this quote by St. John of the Cross: "God does not fit in an occupied heart."

The goodness I have experienced here in Athens has been making room, chiseling deeper into me and creating a new depth I didn't know I had, a depth that can only be experienced by the loss of the very goodness and beauty that created it. Initially, I feel hollow and empty from the ripping away of this goodness. But it has me hoping. Loss makes more space for God.

Each of these people has taught me and left their indelible mark on me. Here are just a few of the things I love about each of them, a few of the ways they have revealed and reflected God to me:

Asha: God is spirit and shining. He doesn't withhold himself or his goodness, encouragement or laughter. He is maturity, depth and lightness, passionate and spunky. He changes the world.

Courtney: God is who he is. He is genuine concern and never wants to offend, always seeks to make things right. He cares a lot, and isn't afraid to care or show it. He includes us, welcomes us, wants us. He loves.

Missy: God doesn't disregard anything or anyone; he sees and gives genuine acceptance and approval. He is freedom and individuality and depth and honesty and seeking and mystery and life. God is goofy and really fun to be around.

Emily: God is loyalty, faithfulness and steadfastness. He can be depended upon. He sees each individual and cares about them, their catastrophic and their everyday. He rejoices with us; our joy is his.

Patrick: God is hilarious and enjoys when people are laughing. He is impressive, humble and genuine and connects people with each other. He is interested and interesting, straightforward in articulating his truth. He supports us.

Danny: God puts himself out there for people to know and connects with others. He is a lover of life and knows life isn't for wasting, but for seeing and being a part of the richness around us. He cares about others, whether they know him or not, and actively shows his care. God surprises us.

Goodbye, Athens. Thank you.