Originally published May 31, 2013
This afternoon my main employer is hosting a fond-farewell send-off lunch to celebrate the work of one of our colleagues who is leaving us to accept bigger, better challenges in her career, whatever that means for her. Since she and I only worked together a short time, most of it spent with me griping about the condition of her travel reimbursement requests, I don’t have much to say to or about her, and I’ve least reason to celebrate her departure as a result. Still, saying “so long” to a coworker brings about some reflection, and I wondered what I would say to or about her should the occasion call for it, if for no other reason than to have something – anything – to say. After all, I give lengthy orations not because I have anything interesting or valuable to say, but because I just enjoy hearing myself speak. (And can admit that.)
First, congratulations on your new adventure. You describe it as something that affords you the reward of having deeper impact on the education and lives of students. You seem only a little sad to leave this job and very motivated to start your new one. I hope it is all you imagine it to be.
Next, know you will be missed here. Sure, you already know that because you know the impact you’ve had here in your two years at your current post. From what I can tell – rumors, stories, accolades, and such – you’re quite adept at what you do and will certainly leave a mark. Let’s hope it rubs out with Lysol.
Also, you remind me of me ten years ago. Well, look different and have less hair than I did at that time in my life. Still, in many ways you mirror the aptitude, attitudes, and behaviors of a much younger me. Not sure whether that’s a positive or negative and probably shouldn’t have brought it up. Don’t know where I was going with that. Let it lie.
On a sad note, there will be no brownies. I asked. You made some flippant remarks about apologies and forgiveness. I scowled. You laughed. And then there was no real answer about the brownies. So there are also no brownies. That’s what being snarky gets you. No brownies.
Finally, as you head into this luncheon designed for celebrating you, remember that even people who hardly know you – whether they’re at the lunch or not – see enough in you to recognize that all you’re trying to do right here right now is reach another level of potential that you see in you. That’s kind of a big deal because many people with your talent don’t recognize it for themselves and waste a lot of time doing jobs that pay them way less than their last one and just help them eek by in life. In that way, you’re kind of our, I mean, their hero. Think on that over lunch.
So here’s to one Rebecca Maltzman, a rising star in education. Looking forward to seeing your name in lights some day.
Again, no brownies.