The Weight of Farewell

“We spend our lives becoming strangers to old versions of ourselves. Goodbye is part of the introduction.”

They say the one thing you can count on is change. Indeed, in life, everything constantly evolves. So, too, with the Storytellers Squad. After many years, it’s time to close the book on this chapter.

Passages turn out to be strange things. They can be ceremonial like a toast at a party or as casual as a wave from the car window. Some departures come abruptly while others ripen into gradual releases. Regardless of the process, remembering what has been affirming, what has been rewarding, and what should be celebrated grounds the benediction.

Goodbyes tend to be bittersweet. While endings often bring sadness and loss, they also make room for what comes next. We learn how to keep moving, to reinvent ourselves.

When it’s hard to let go, keep a couple of strategies in mind. Shifting mindsets can transform fear and uncertainty into a chance for growth. Relying on others helps, too. For the Squad specifically, our members are embracing both of those approaches. The Storyteller writers will thrive with their works in progress and individual websites. And the fellowship will continue to encourage each other with writing critiques and advice on manuscripts and publications.

Reflection also accompanies the send-offs. When it comes to the Storytellers Squad legacy, it met its mission: We are a squad of storytellers sharing our love of fiction with kids, tweens, and teens. The book reviews, parenting, and writing tips over the years provided guidance and recommendations for numerous online friends.

As for my writing journey, I’ll keep exploring dystopian, urban fantasy, and the rest speculative fiction has to offer. Catch me on my website at CarolEaton.com or wander through my weekly musings on Medium. Godspeed and blessings on the next adventure.