[ah, now that's an expression that Jonathan knows quite well - and a familiar train of thought, too. his voice and expression are gentle with understanding.]

I'm always happy when the people I care about can be happy, even if it means parting ways from me. But I don't think that makes the loss sting any less.

[was it selfish to want friends and family to stay by your side, especially in a world that wasn't your own? certainly. but it was a selfishness that he could never label shameful; it was simply humanity.]

Even if we don't carry our memories of this world with us back home, I still believe that our time here changes us. The people who've been ported out still keep us close in their hearts.

[he smiles softly]

And there's always a chance for their return.