The End is Nearer

I posted some time ago about preparing for the end and needing to prepare the kids for my departure. Well that has begun to happen. I am approaching the kids and straight up telling them "I leave on next Sunday". I think they need to hear it directly like that. And responses have been encouraging. Many of the kids are already aware and all are visibly strained by the news. I had a conversation about the last group of servants and how sad everyone was when they left. This particular child said something to the tune of "It was hard saying bye to Ashley and the others and now we have to do it again".
How awful.
It stinks to have to be another goodbye that these kids have to suffer through. It almost makes me feel like there should be a commitment of say 3 years or something to be able to come and serve at First Love. But then again, the heartbreak after 3 years may be worse. Is there a way to avoid this pain? Should we be seeking ways to avoid this pain? Maybe it's a necessary part of the helping process? I don't know. Not all social work positions can be so professional. I can't have the same boundaries here as I could as a private practitioner. And that's okay I think. But what to do with these goodbyes. Is this healthy for anyone?
I must return. I think everyone who serves here must. As an expression of love and respect for the heart's of the kids we must return. Although they're hard conversations to have, I know that talking about the goodbye will make it an easier transition in the long run.