Yes, I am now into my last few remaining days in this part of Congo as I will soon be moving to another duty station. I was informed of the proposed transfer as early as February. I was excited and happy that only after 20 months I am getting a new assignment.
However, as the end draws near, I get mixed feelings of sadness and nostalgia. I have no idea how the news went around so quickly that when I left for some days off in the last week of March, a few of my colleagues came to my office to say goodbye.
Never mind if they don't speak English and I don't speak their language. I got the message just the same. I had to keep a straight face to betray the emotions I am trying to hide. Tears welled up in my eyes as the oldest man in my team turned around after saying goodbye to me as I prepare to go for a vacation during the holy week. They probably thought I am going quietly and not coming back anymore.
That started the nostalgic feeling. I thought it would be easier to go and leave this place after all the many challenges I had. I guess I will have to agree that saying goodbye is always difficult no matter what...
