[MotownJohnny]

Someone I have spent a lot of time with in the past year in a professional/working relationship, but who has come to feel like family, told me tonight he is moving on in a couple of months, pursuing a new professional opportunity in a different part of the country. I'm happy for him, he deserves it, he definitely deserves to move more than a few steps up the ladder, and it is a really good opportunity.

And, I'm devastated. I just want to cry. I've come to think of him as a friend, a mentor, and kind of the big brother I always wanted. I know that the personal relationship will continue, in that sense, and technology makes it so easy now. But, I am really going to miss him on a daily basis, and I just don't see anyone being able to take his place. He really was a major support and I owe a lot to him.

I'm happy for him, I'm proud of him, and I'm devastated. it 's going to be hard working with him for the next few months knowing it will end.

[Calm]

Yes, the distance will come between you after he moves but the bond you've created will still exist. It happened to me with a dear friend many years ago, and we stayed in touch via phone calls. Sadly, it all came to an end when she passed away but I keep a special place in my heart for her and will never let go of that.

Have you expressed to him about how you feel about his leaving, and what his friendship has meant to you? I have a feeling he'd feel really honored that you think that highly of him. To be told by someone how important they've been in your life with their positive influence and friendship would be a gift to them in my opinion. If the position was reversed, what would you like to be done? You've been blessed to have someone like this in your life, and I hope your friendship will continue.

Best wishes to you in dealing with this. Hoping the outcome will be a good one for both of you.

[MotownJohnny]

Thanks, Calm. He already knows how I feel about him in general. About him leaving, well, when he told me last night, it was a bit of a surprise. He is a lot younger than I am (although I think of him as my "big brother" because he is very worldly and has a lot of "street smarts" as well as intellect), and I am not at all surprised that he is looking to move up in his career. I just can't address that right now, because I would probably break down in tears over it, and he as of yet hasn't told management at his current position that he is moving on, so I can't spill the beans. When the time is right.

I'll get over it, it's just going to be kind of an emotional few months for me. I'm just going to do my best to make sure the time we spend together is productive and rewarding for both of us.

[Calm]

Keep the good times going.