First, some quick background information:

When we PCS’d to Hawaii, my husband and I realized we were exponentially behind the curve in popular culture. Everyone seemed to have the television show “Lost” memorized, knew all the local filming locations and claimed to have eaten lunch with a cast member at least once.

So, we watched all six seasons in about six months. As the characters traveled through space and time, one of the oft heard catch phrases was, “See you in another life, brother.”

As our three-year tour in Hawaii swiftly comes to a close, and our friends begin to pack their things as well, I hear that phrase in my head over and over. It fits the military life perfectly.

I’ve learned, in the military, you never really say goodbye. The community is so small, and so mobile, that you may eventually see people again.

And it almost feels like a lifetime away.

Friends I made in South Korea as a newlywed, hanging out on Friday night with no commitments until Monday morning, have resurfaced now, 12 years later, with babies and busy schedules.

Friends I made in North Carolina who mentored me through those early days of motherhood as they cared for their school-age children, are sending those kids off to college and looking at the ease of retirement.

With each move, the changes are staggering: a new location, new friends, new extracurricular activities and a new type of life.

In the spaces between our reunions, we grow, change and improve.

Each time we meet again, they are the same people, but indeed are in the midst of living another adventure, another life.

Last week, our dear neighbors left for Germany.  As parents of teenagers, they were good with advice and fun to talk to over the fence line as we both barbecued on Friday nights.

I will miss them. But I’m certain we will eventually see them again.

When we do, they will be easing into retirement and we will be asking for more of their great advice, this time, for our teenagers.

Until then, Godspeed. And I’ll see you in another life, brother.