Farewells can be shattering, but returns are surely worse. Solid flesh can never live up to the bright shadow cast by its absence. Time and distance blur the edges; then suddenly the beloved has arrived, and it's noon with its merciless light, and every spot and pore and wrinkle and bristle stands clear.
The emotional impact of farewells can be profound, often leaving a lasting sense of sorrow. However, the experience of reuniting after a long absence can be even more challenging. The idealized memory of a person can create an unbearable contrast when faced with the reality of their presence. This highlights the difficulty of reconciliating memories with reality.
As time passes, the details of a loved one's image may fade, but when they return, the stark clarity of their true appearance can be overwhelming. It serves as a reminder that while absence may enhance our memories, the reality of our loved ones is often more complex and imperfect, revealing a more difficult emotional truth.
