i cried at work today

I cried at work today

Tears flowed freely as we said our goodbyes

My colleagues broke me with their kindness

Have you ever been so lucky to be so sad?

We’ve spent a year together

Fifty early Ohio mornings and fifty China nights

Speaking through broken English and a translator

Has hard work ever felt this easy?

Our professional masks were removed over time

Conversations became easy and joyful

We celebrated milestones and expressed condolences

Have you ever been vulnerable to feel safe?

They attentively listened to learn how to teach

I curiously asked questions to learn how to connect

Finding common ground and honoring distinctions

Have differences ever been so beautiful?

I cried at work today

The goal we set out to achieve has been accomplished

We’ve lived through many iterations of ourselves and our work

Now is the time to for them to fly on their own

Have you ever had a win that felt like losing?