Today I had a last visit with a little boy who is turning 3. I've been working with him and his family for over 2 years. This little guy has found a special place in my heart. Today when I showed up to his house I was greeted with a huge smile and his adorable voice saying, "Kelly here!" Our last visit was fun, as most of my recent visits have been, and then it came time to say, "Goodbye."
Saying goodbye is the worst part of my job. We usually spend at least 18 months to 2 years with a family. In that time we build relationships and in many ways become part of their weekly routine. We celebrate milestones like rolling, crawling, walking, talking, making eye contact, a day without tantrums, the first night spent in their own beds, making it on to the growth charts, no more bottles, no more diapers; the big things and the little things, and we are lucky enough to be a part of it all.
As hard as goodbye visits are, it's amazing to see the changes and growth; not only in the child, but also in the family. After a very long, stressful week this last visit was a powerful reminder of why I do what I do. The paperwork is ridiculous, the stress is sometimes overwhelming, and some of the situations we encounter are heartbreaking; but tonight I was reminded of the impact we can make and the relationships we develop.
Tonight I am grateful for goodbye visits.
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