Flashback, 21 Dec 2019, Reijer Staats
Farewell speech
Dear family and friends, how wonderful to have you here! Johan asked yesterday: "Are we actually going to give a speech?" "Well, let's keep something in reserve just in case," I replied. To which Johan, after a brief pause, said: "Just don't start crying!"
We're leaving for Spain straight after Christmas on Friday. How it all came about, you can soon read in my blog, where I write about our new life under the Andalusian sun. AVROTROS didn't find us exciting enough for Ik Vertrek, but of course, we'd love you to follow us!
Recently, we had dinner with friendly neighbours near our renovated donkey stable in Spain. Our Norwegian vecina suggested laying out tarot cards. Johan drew a card symbolising what we most love to do: taking new steps, creating something from nothing, turning ideas into results, enjoying a creative process, and making connections and friendships.
I drew a card symbolising childhood memories. That card reminded me not only to focus on the future but also to pause and be aware of relationships – especially with my mother, our dear sisters, and family. Suddenly, our farewell felt very close.
We are saying goodbye to our home, our work, and some of our material possessions. But that's not what matters to us. It's about connection and contact. Despite the physical distance, in Spain we're just a phone call, message, or email away from you. And dear friends, everyone is always welcome at our place in Spain! It's just as lovely and special to see each other there.
Time to wrap up. Thank you for being here at our farewell party. But we're not going home just yet!
The keen listener will have noticed that not a single Spanish word has been spoken in this speech. But now, one: SALUD!