When someone departs whom we care about, whether that “departure” is to college, to another area for a job or simply a relocation, there’s always an accompanying tinge of sadness. Our “face to face” encounters with that person now becomes “limited.” Yes, social media certainly closes that gap tremendously, but it’s still not the same. Imagine how the apostles felt when Jesus left them— especially after their “reunion” following His Glorious Resurrection. It had to be crushing. Jesus softened the blow by saying in the Gospel of John, “it is better that I leave, for if I didn’t, the Paraclete, the Spirit of Truth will never come to you.” It is the Holy Spirit’s lasting presence that provides us comfort in our daily lives. We sing, “He is everywhere present and fills all things.” Let us allow His abiding presence to guide our paths.