The last weeks I've been thinking deeply about human connection and how somehow every connection leaves an unerasable mark on us. I've been thinking of Hayley and the impact she had on me, and will continue having even in her absence. Hayley was energetic, fun, and always planning her next trip and adventure. Even though we had not seen each other for more than 3 years when she came to visit in Jordan in September 2023, the conversation immediately kicked off and it felt like no time had passed. We spoke about everything and nothing, because that is what it was to be friends with her. No topic was too hard, none too superficial. She was genuine and true to herself, and also in her engagements with others. At one point we were working in the same unit, sitting in an open landscape corridor on opposite sides. We took up a habit of going for short coffee breaks, sometimes to let out some frustrations or tensions. All it took was one look at each other across the corridor, no words spoken. We both knew what was needed, and left the office through different doors to meet up briefly outside. These 'no questions asked', 'I'm here for you' moments were important. Hayley made me laugh, and I'd like to credit her for the fact that my wardrobe now contains a few clothing pieces with animal pattern. When we last met, I was struck by how content Hayley seemed. I found so much joy in hearing about her life back home in the UK, about the kids and Ed, about her exercise and healthy lifestyle, about her taking up old hobbies and starting to go to concerts, about her planned trips, and about her close relations with other friends. It somehow seemed to me that she had become the best and truest version of herself. While I desperately would have wished for her to continue on this life journey, I am immensely grateful for having had the chance to know her. I am proud that she wanted to be friends with me and I am so proud of her and the person she had become. Ed, our doors will always be open for you, Naomi and Zach. And when it comes to the time when the kids are older and want to go solo travelling, please remind them that there will always be room for them at ours, wherever that may be. I will miss Hayley immensely.