We Were Always Meant To Say Goodbye

Ever felt that twinge of sadness at the end of a movie, even one you absolutely loved? That feeling isn't a bug; it's a feature! Turns out, we're wired to feel a little melancholy when something good is ending. It's all part of the grand design of stories, and maybe even life itself.

The Art of the Fade-Out

Think about your favorite stories, be it a book, TV series, or even a really good video game. They all have one thing in common: an ending. It might be happy, sad, or somewhere in between, but it's always there.

And honestly, would we even appreciate the journey as much if we thought it would last forever? Imagine *The Lord of the Rings* with no Mount Doom. No thank you!

Why Endings Are Actually Awesome

Endings provide closure. They let us reflect on what we've experienced, both with the characters and in our own lives. Without that final chapter, we're just left hanging, wondering, "What was the point of all that?"

More importantly, goodbyes allow for new beginnings. That tear you shed at the finale of *Friends*? It's watering the soil for your next favorite show. That's right, you are ready to binge the new season of Stranger Things!

Think of it like this: every 'goodbye' is a 'hello' in disguise. It's an opportunity to explore new stories, meet new characters, and discover new passions.

The Science of Sadness (Kind Of)

Okay, maybe there isn't a whole department dedicated to the study of fictional sadness. But psychologists do know that we form attachments to characters. We empathize with their struggles, celebrate their victories, and, yes, mourn their departures. It's human nature.

This empathetic connection is why shows like *Ted Lasso* resonate so deeply. We invest in these characters. When they finally find their happy endings, we're genuinely happy for them, even as we're wiping away a tear or two.

This investment, this connection is what makes the saying goodbye important.

Embrace the Feels!

So, next time you're reaching for the tissues at the end of a particularly moving story, don't fight it. Embrace the feels! Let yourself be sad, grateful, or even a little bit nostalgic.

That bittersweet feeling is a testament to the power of storytelling and the depth of our own emotions. It proves you were invested.

And remember, even though a story may be over, the memories and lessons it imparted will stay with you long after the credits roll. Think about *Harry Potter*, even though the original series has finished, the magic stays!

Goodbye... For Now!

Ultimately, the realization that "we were always meant to say goodbye" isn't depressing, it's actually quite liberating. It allows us to fully appreciate the moments we have, knowing that they are precious and fleeting.

So go forth, watch those shows, read those books, and play those games. Don't be afraid to get emotionally invested.

Just remember to keep a box of tissues handy. And maybe some chocolate. For purely scientific reasons, of course.

As Winnie the Pooh famously said,