Over the last few weeks I attended two reunions with former co-workers – one was the last hospital I worked in as an ADN, and the other was the first law firm I worked in as a junior associate. In both cases I was struck by the comradery and genuine affection these colleagues had for each other. I noticed how excited everyone was every time another long-lost member of the clan arrived. As we reminisced about both difficult and joyful times, the collective memories further cemented the bonds of people who had shared professional experiences. Yet it was personal.

During the years we had worked together we had shared each other’s weddings, funerals, promotions, births, heartaches and triumphs. We had shared a part of each other’s lives. In both reunions I noticed that we had gone separate ways but continued to remain a colony of sorts. Seeing them again, I felt a closeness to “my peeps” and realized how much I had missed them.

We shape each other in the workplace in a manner that is not always appreciated in the moment. How much we love or hate our jobs depends so much on who we work with. The co-worker relationship is a special bond. I was saddened to learn of the deaths of some of my colleagues. I didn’t get the chance to say goodbye to them. I wondered if they knew I respected and cared for them. I questioned whether or not I had ever conveyed that to them. I wished I could re-write the script, go back in time, and have it clearly said that they were important to me.

 So for all of those I have worked with in all settings – thank you. Thank you for your expertise and your willingness to share it. Thank you for your professionalism and your commitment to excellence. And mostly, as Bob Hope would say, thanks for the memories.

Have a safe and joyous holiday season