The month of goodbyes has begun. With that, I have started contemplating the word, “Goodbye.” Why must we add the “good” to bye? We do not have to say “Goodhello” so why must we say good bye?
My conclusion: Because we all know hello is intrinsically good whereas bye rarely seems good. So we add the adjective good to the word with the hopes that we can will it to be good. For example, your mother never needed to say, “Would you like some good brownies?” But she would have had to say, “Would you like some good brussel sprouts?” Even as children, we knew brownies were good by their very nature, with or without the adjective, and we knew the brussel sprouts were not good, with or without the adjective good. (and while our moms were bringing us these mythical, supposedly good brussel sprouts didn’t you always wonder if the unicorns and other mythological beings could serve them?)
Therefore, we say goodbye to help us believe it will be good. We say goodbye hoping the word will bring about a truly good bye.*
With that, what does a true good bye look like?
I believe my goodbye will truly be a good bye. Why? Because only good things are inspiring the Bye. I’m leaving to do something I am incredibly excited about. I’m leaving so that I can work with some amazing people. I’m leaving to begin an adventure that few ever dream of. I’m leaving with the support and encouragement of those I love. I’m also leaving knowing that this is not a separation that will last forever.
With all things considered, I will wish all of you a Goodbye knowing that it is truly a Good Bye.
*Side note – the same argument could be applied to “Good Morning”…just saying.
