Colby

Living abroad has been a challenging and rewarding experience. It has pushed me completely outside of comfort zone, helped me learn more about myself, become more open minded about other cultures, and has given me the opportunity to meet some amazing people and visit so many new places. There are times, though, when living so far away from home really takes a toll on you.

While out celebrating with some coworkers the near completion of our first term for the school year, I nonchalantly glanced down to check my phone. The smile and joy vanished and I was filled with such sadness as I read my mother's text message. Colby, my cat that I've had since college who is living in the US with my parents, had died in his sleep.  In that moment, I desperately wished I could be home. I wish I could have been there to comfort him in his final hours and to help my parents bury him. But I couldn't be. I'm thousands of miles away. Luckily I have some wonderful friends who consoled me and after having some quiet relaxing time and going to dance class, I feel that I'm finally ready to say a proper goodbye. 

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Dear Colby, 

You had a great 11 years of life. You moved countless times with me from college to Virginia and back to Pennsylvania again. You experienced life in the country and the city. You were an energetic kitten who my brother even liked when you were little because of your high jumping skills. You enjoyed drinking water out of the faucet and driving me crazy by splashing all your water out of your water bowl. You were loved and well cared for and I hope you are finally at peace.