Life Beyond Us

This is me knowing that we don’t get a do-over — not on the last night I spent asleep beside you or the last time I told you I loved you or the first moment I felt us start to drift apart. I know I do not get to go back to linger twenty minutes in bed every Saturday, waiting to be kissed.

This is me knowing we don’t get to go back.

This is my acceptance that I am going to miss you. I can’t rewind history and ask you what was wrong each evening when you came home with a puzzle in your eyes but no answer on your lips.

I am going to see you everywhere, in the faces of strangers, in the photos, and memories.

This is my knowing life goes on.

Someday I will meet someone who loves the foods you hate, laughs at things you don’t find funny, and appreciates the parts of me that you once hated.

This is me knowing that we are going to grow old. That your life is going to be huge, important, and full of love. That I am not going to be there to toast your 60th birthday or organize your underwear.

This is me knowing that I have to let you go. No matter what, we are never going to be the right partners for each other.

This is me knowing that I have to do what’s right. I want you to take whatever path you need to take if it will lead you towards your dreams.

Sometimes the best thing you can do for someone you love is to let them go.