Dear Charleston,
So what to say when you are leaving after a ten year relationship (and if you have ever been to Charleston you understand this relationship). You have seen me grow from a scared eighteen year old college freshman into an almost thirty year old mother. We had some really good times you and I. This August will make eleven years here and to be honest I thought I would never leave.
How do you say goodbye to a city that made you, you? I know that may sound dramatic but I have grown up so much under this city's watchful eye.
Jose and I met here, fell in love here, bought our first home here, and then brought our first born home here. I had my first and second real jobs here. Went to school twice and still don't know what I want to do with my life.
I met friends here, you know those college friends that you will have for a lifetime. I then watched all of them move away and find themselves elsewhere. Then I met what I know will be forever friends. You know those friends who make you the wife and mother you want to be. Those friends who support you and you support through difficult and happy life moments. The news of a new baby, the birth of a baby, the loss of a baby, marriage wins and difficulties, and the loss of parents. How do I leave these people?
This city is so much more that beautiful beaches and waterways, great eateries, and spectacular sunsets. This city is almost a living and breathing organism that draws you in upon first meeting and never really lets you go. Charleston will always be home, I think in more ways than my birthplace is home, really.
As I start this new adventure I hope that this city knows how much of an impact it had on me and the person I am today. I hope that friends old and new know how much I treasure them and what they have brought to my life.
This is the end of an era for me but not the end of a love affair. Charleston you will always be home and forever have a piece of me.
Love,
Charity
