Reflections
Yesterday, there was a private memorial for Manny Coachen at the embassy. I was advised against holding one, but I considered it a gesture to benefit the staff more than Mr. Coachen himself. However, I was one of the very few people in attendance, so perhaps I should have listened to the others.
Manny's behavior was reprehensible and in no way excusable, but it's difficult to erase the idea of my loyal secretary and colleague from my mind. After all, I worked with him since I first arrived in this country, years ago. It's odd, missing someone no one else seems to miss and at the same time feeling as though you shouldn't mourn them.
I called my husband Danaus to talk about it, but "good riddance to bad rubbish" isn't the most comforting sentiment, though I know he means it in a supportive way. Danny's just like that. He did visit me right after the trouble at the embassy, but he couldn't stay long, and it does feel a bit lonely here these days.
I honestly hadn't realized how much I'd relied upon Manny. Now that my workload has been doubled by the reunification, I'm somewhat overwhelmed by my duties here. There are so many things Manny filed away that I simply can't find. I try to remain optimistic, but it's very frustrating at times.
I might be criticized for being so open about this, but I think there have been too many closed doors at this embassy for too long.
Manny's behavior was reprehensible and in no way excusable, but it's difficult to erase the idea of my loyal secretary and colleague from my mind. After all, I worked with him since I first arrived in this country, years ago. It's odd, missing someone no one else seems to miss and at the same time feeling as though you shouldn't mourn them.
I called my husband Danaus to talk about it, but "good riddance to bad rubbish" isn't the most comforting sentiment, though I know he means it in a supportive way. Danny's just like that. He did visit me right after the trouble at the embassy, but he couldn't stay long, and it does feel a bit lonely here these days.
I honestly hadn't realized how much I'd relied upon Manny. Now that my workload has been doubled by the reunification, I'm somewhat overwhelmed by my duties here. There are so many things Manny filed away that I simply can't find. I try to remain optimistic, but it's very frustrating at times.
I might be criticized for being so open about this, but I think there have been too many closed doors at this embassy for too long.