When a Hummingbird Came to Say Goodbye

Forever Friends, Beyond Time and Distance

Phương ơi,

I honestly can’t remember exactly how we met back in middle school, but we just clicked and became friends right away.

I remember the summer of eighth grade when my dad took us to Monterey to take photos along the 17-Mile Drive. He had this new 3-D camera, which back then felt like a huge deal, like having the first iPhone today. I asked you to come along, and I’m so glad you did.

We stopped along the way while my dad had us pose for pictures with the ocean in the background. I can still see that moment so clearly, and I wish I could find that photo. It’s one of the most fun memories I have with you.

You always had this way of noticing things no one else would, like the time you casually pointed something out about my neck that I had never even thought about. You were honest and direct, but in a way that made me take better care of myself. That’s just who you were, observant and always leaving a little mark on people’s lives.

I’m so grateful that we reconnected in recent years. Even though we stayed in touch off and on since high school, being able to hang out, have dinner together, and catch up meant the world to me. Our friendship always picked up exactly where we left off, no matter how much time had passed. That’s the kind of connection we had, and I’m so thankful for it.

The morning I learned that you had continued on your journey, I went for a walk. Along the path, a hummingbird flew close by and then landed on the ground, just standing there for a long time. I watched from a distance so it wouldn’t fly off, and it stayed still. Eventually, I got closer and took a picture to remember the moment, and it still didn’t move. Finally, it flew off, and as I turned around, it flew straight toward me, close enough for me to hear the flap of its wings. I’ve never seen a hummingbird get that close or stay so still. In that moment, I felt comforted, and even in my sadness, I knew you would be okay.

You were brave, strong, and resilient. You faced so much in your life, yet I never heard you complain. You just kept going, even when you were tired. I’ve always admired that about you. You loved your kids fiercely and shared stories about them with so much pride. You and Andy (Tri) are a beautiful example of what love and commitment can look like, and no one can ever take that away.

I’m sad to say goodbye for now, but I know this is just another part of our journey. People who are truly connected never really part ways. So goodbye for now, my friend. Watch over us, and until we meet again, know that I will always carry you in my heart.

❤️‍🩹,

By Trang (friend)

The lil hummingbird…