Everyone's life is full of goodbyes. They can be big or small, intense or easy, and they can come more often than we realize. We say goodbye to people when we leave an event, we say goodbye to our old hair color as we dye it, and we say goodbye to campus when the semester is over. But there are times when our farewells are not thought of or even noticed.

Then there are the big goodbyes—ones such as graduating from high school, leaving a job you love, or the worst goodbye: Mourning the death of someone you love. Goodbyes are never easy. They come in all shapes and forms. Yet they are instrumental in our lives.

Sometimes you have a say over these exits, but other times, you don't. The choice isn't always up to us. However, we do have a choice in how we respond to these inevitable changes. A certain beauty can be found in these hard times, as they mean that you have had an experience, a person, or a memory that has shaped your life forever.

Whatever you are saying goodbye to has had an impact on your life in some way. It gave you a greater sense of purpose, a stronger sense of self, and a deeper appreciation for life. Be thankful, as many are not fortunate enough to get these beautiful moments in the first place.

So smile while you cry and try to laugh through the discomfort.

You are in for many more goodbyes, but even more hellos!