Growing up, my father always had to leave home for work and spend most of his time away from us.

I did not understand this but everything changed when he passed away since it also meant taking over the responsibility. 

I had to leave, I had to provide, and that’s how I understood. I saw leaving as a means of growth and maturity instead of abandonment. I had no one to seek help with but myself and so I strived living and exploring the new environment I am with until I became familiar with it and gained new friends. Although the cycle goes on as these friends need to leave and go on with their lives as well. This when I realized that we all need to grow but growing does not necessarily mean growing apart.