Go…A simple word with a simple meaning: To Move.
Some words can be easily defined, but with others, context can expand their meaning. For instance, the phrase “Let’s go!” can instill feelings of excitement and adventure for the word ‘go’; as its simple meaning suggest. Just change one word with the phrase “Let it go” and suddenly, the word ‘go’ becomes the end of movement. It’s really the moment which dictates the words we use, not their definitions. It’s up to us to define that moment to make it either positive or negative. A word like ‘Go’ may have a simple definition, but I saw it for more than its two characters. For me, in my moment, it meant to Stop.
Now search the definition of the word ‘family’ and you will see it too is not a simple word. Then again, nothing about it ever is. Some will even say it’s indescribable; likely true. The family I grew up in is nothing like the one I recently had. Don’t get me wrong, birthdays were still celebrated, anniversaries were still monumental and as a whole, we enjoyed each other’s company. And mind you, it wasn’t always easy. We all worked hard at making memories last forever, but to some it was easily forgettable. Eventually birthdays were celebrated less, anniversaries lacked importance, and the company of others once relished became distasteful. Slowly, we began to break apart, and not by choice.
Although we shared the same roof, the same living space and ate at the same table, it didn’t make us a true family. There were times we supported one another, stayed up late to share secrets, but regardless of how tight knit some of us were, tension began to see it all unravel. Our family was growing in distance and size. What was not growing was our friendships. In moments, I would see change and glimmers of hope, but I too was miserable to feel the change. Gone were the days I felt like I belonged. I saw it all slowly slip away until there was one last thing they needed to do. The ones I considered as the heads of our family unapologetically took me aside and said, “Paulo, we have to let you go.” A moment I will never forget, but not for the reason you may think.
In some situations, life is defined and structured. Then change the context and like the word ‘go’; its meaning can expand. After all the struggle I put myself through, thinking I was advancing my career, I realized with those three words, “…let you go,” I would finally Stop, and my life could finally Move Forward.
Nutology 