Goodbye speeches are funny because goodbyes represent a hault to people’s relationship and I’ve come to realize that people interconnectedness is so much more fluid then just now or never but its every constant and ever changing. I worked with people in my agency that I never talk to but I’ve always connected with them because of the deep respect that I have for them as people and community workers.

Today, my old agency blessed with a going away party. This is both my first and last going away party since I’ve been there for 2 ½ years. I knew I was going to have to make a speech but I didn’t want to formulate it around the idea of “goodbye” but more of “thank you”. Thank you for all the incredible things that each of my coworkers, teammates, & family imparted on me. You all have taught me something that has impacted on the man I’ve become today so thank you.

My three Chi’s (Sisters) but they’re really my Me’s (Mothers)
Chi Phung: You’re bright smile always brightens up my day and you are the friendliest souls I have ever met in my life.

Chi Xuan: Everytime we get to talk, you always share such an inspirational story about where you came from and the things you’ve done to make a good life for you and your family.

Chi Thu: You’re the only person in the agency that believes that I can speak Vietnamese. No else does. This is really important to me. Thank you.

Mary: You are the auntie that always supports me in anything that I do. You always encourage me to do everything that I am. I love you so much.

Jose: You’re my weird uncle that I tell my friends about – I may only understand 50% of what you do but you always make me laugh and your artistic discipline inspires me.

Dawon and Charles: You guys are my brothers and I can always get down with yall. We hang out and kick it no matter what. You gentlemen will do a lot in life.

Moni: you’re the sister that wants to beat me up but you gave me the best advice when I was most down so you both bring me down but more so bring me up.

Oksana: You’re the cousin that always picks on me and makes fun of me. We always have a good time whenever I see you.

Sheng: You’re the cousin that I grew up with and learned with as I started the agency when you did.

Andrey and Chong: As a young man with no strong father figure in my life, I really seek to you both as guidance. Plus both of you have a lot of experience especially Chong cause you’re a father for a lot of people.

Mimi: Don’t take this weird but I think you’re my long lost female twin that I recently found and trying to get to know better. We have so many similar values but yet we are so different. I hope to continue to build with you.

Choua and Stephanie: You two are my older sisters that help challenge me and tell me when I need to step up my game. These moments are so crucial to my growth and learning. Thank you

May and Elaine: This has nothing to do with your age but you are both my grandmother because everything I have the chance to talk to you, you endow so much wisdom with me. You both are so incredible of womyn and I look up to you both a lot

Dream Team Good bye will be coming soon…