Zander is looking forward to the Swiss experience, but the thought of saying farewell to his friends saddens him. Many of them have a special place in his and my heart.

Abby

His special girlfriend is Abby. She has a smile in her mischievous blue eyes. Like Zander, she has two big brothers. She, therefore, understands video games, teen music, language, and behaviour. At age four, they started with Grade 0 together at Welgemoed Pre-Primary.

When we arrived at the new school, everything was unfamiliar, and I could see tears welling up in his eyes. Abby appeared like an angel, took Zander’s hand, and asked if he wanted to play with her. Their friendship began at a fragile moment for both of us. They have moved from the sandpit to video games and ice skating, but Abby remains his special girlfriend.

George

You can consider yourself extremely lucky if you have a neighbour like George. They are the same age, in the same class and play together in the same rugby team. They socialise almost daily, except for exam times, during which Aletta and I both hope and pray we cannot hear each other. Together their creativity has no end.

One Saturday morning, they threw burning fireworks into the toilet, which blew away part of the bowl. At George’s house, Zander learns about building structures, barbecuing, and sisters. The birth of Roxy’s most precious little puppies was a highlight. At our house, George gets informed about bigger brother-related things and technology.

Leaving highlights the preciousness of friendships

Leaving your country makes you think about the preciousness of all the special friendships and relationships in your life. The quality of our relationships has a significant impact on our emotional well-being. I cherish moments where I felt a connection between souls and someone who understood my heart. The enjoyment of togetherness lightens our burdens in challenging times.

We are planning a farewell party so that Zander and his friends can have a great time in our garden for the last time. I will say goodbye to my friends individually over a coffee or wine. The most challenging farewell is when Zander and I visit my family in the Kalahari and Jacques in Potchefstroom before we board the plane to Switzerland.

New friendships

Friendships and relationships are something I am concerned about when we leave. On the one hand, I need to find creative ways to maintain my current precious relationships. On the other hand, I need to establish new friendships with people with different backgrounds than mine. As an introvert, it is easier said than done. Charl will hopefully meet friends in his work situation and Zander at school. However, I will have to force myself to be part of opportunities where I can meet other people.

I understand the Swiss people are private. German is, of course, still a high hurdle that I will have to jump over before I can consider Swiss friends. I will initially have to reach out to other parents at Zander’s new school. We are, after all, in the same boat.

Kind regards

Emsia