Leaving can take on many different forms - leaving your keys, a job, a relationship, a home, or even a way of life. Leaving can bring feelings of loss or uncertainty, but it also can bring a sense of freedom or acceptance. I began this project because I wanted to have a discussion with my grandmother about the topic of death. I wondered how she felt knowing that she would be leaving her family behind in her passing. These questions began my desire to hear other people’s stories about leaving and loss. These audio pieces explore these how leaving changes our relationships, ideas of self, and lives.

Reflections of Farewell

No Other Option

 

Abby Curtis / photo provided

What happens when someone is forced to leave their home? Esmatullah Ahmadzi, “Bellal”, talks about what it is like to leave home, and everything that place held, behind.

Lost Connection

We leave certain things behind as we age, but what is it like when someone leaves you in their past? Abby Curtis talks about childhood friendship and growing pains. 

In Search Of Self

What is it like to relocate, leaving a version of yourself behind? Bertan Berker talks about leaving home to satisfy a childhood dream. 

The Years That Are Left

 

John Pressley / photo provided

What happens to our ideas about death and self as one ages? Anne Lucile Pressley explores her perspective on aging and dying.