Dear Nap,
I should have seen it coming. I knew what we had wouldn’t last forever, but I was hoping for a little bit more time together. Another month. Another week. I’d even have been grateful for a few more hours with you. But after just two and a half years, you’re gone for good.
We used to see each other daily, even twice a day at the very beginning. I always looked forward to your arrival. You brought me so much peace and sometimes were the highlight of my whole day. But a few months ago, I noticed that you weren’t coming around as often as you used to. And when you did, things felt different. You were hesitant and your visits were short. Then, one day, you stopped showing up altogether.
I was devastated. Lost. At first, I didn’t know what to do without you. I depended on you so much; you always added structure and relief to my day. After you left, there were some rough days and long afternoons when things felt totally out of control. There were times that I coped by turning on the TV and mentally checking out. I yelled and cried. I didn’t think I could survive your loss.
But it’s been a few months now since you’ve gone away. It hasn’t been easy. At first, the days were so long without you. I read articles about how to handle this transition. I talked to others who’d been in my shoes. I tried to fill the gap you left with quiet time, puzzles, and books, but I still was totally frazzled by the end of the day. I missed our relaxing afternoons together so much. But as time went by, without even realizing it, I settled into a new routine and my confidence grew. I relaxed into a new rhythm without you.
We had a good run, you and me. I’ll never forget our time together and I wish you all the best. I’m doing really well without you. Turns out, I didn’t really need you as much as I thought. In fact, I think you were cramping my style.
Now, I spend entire days away from home without worrying about you. I don’t have to schedule appointments around your needs. I no longer need to leave friends’ houses early to please you. And most importantly, your departure has reminded me that I’m actually pretty tough. I can live without you. You have become just another challenge I’ve overcome.
So, Nap, it’s my turn to say goodbye. Adiós! Ciao! Buh-bye! I don’t need you anymore.
Farewell forever,
Me
P.S. Now that you’ve gone, my relationship with Bedtime has never been better.
