Closing out our series on moments and things that brought our staff joy this year, I’d like to take a few minutes to speak about my personal experiences. Behind the pen name amorphousCloud, my name is Reilly. You have have seen me tucked away in the back help desk of the library, working on computers or sending faxes. I consider myself something of a tech wizard, so be sure to pay me a visit should you find yourself in need of my tech services.

This year has been journey of connection, resilience, and self-discovery—a time when I have leaned on my community, in all its forms, more than ever before. From the fictional stories that offered solace and perspective to the real-life moments that shaped me, this year has taught me the transformative power of shared experiences and the strength to be gained from the people and narratives around us.

For me, one of the most poignant reflections on community has come through the series Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End by Kanehito Yamada. It is a story steeped in quiet, contemplative beauty, exploring what it means to carry the memory of those we’ve journeyed with, even after their paths diverge from ours. Frieren’s character—an elf mage who outlives her companions—reminds us that the people who walk alongside us leave an indelible mark, shaping who we are long after they’re gone.

One line that stood out to me from the series encapsulates this perfectly: “Memories aren’t something you can see. They’re something you feel.” This year, as I navigated milestones like graduating college, caregiving for my grandmother, and supporting my husband through career changes, that truth resonated deeply. The memories of those who’ve walked with me through these moments—friends, family, colleagues—became a source of strength and comfort.

My connection to Frieren extended beyond reading and watching. I immersed myself in its world, not just through catching up on the manga or absorbing the anime, but by bringing the character to life through a costume of my own creation. This project became a deeply personal ritual—a way to connect not only with the series but also with the parts of myself that find joy in creation, reflection, and honoring the stories that matter most.

As I reflect on this tumultuous yet beautiful year, I’m reminded of another quote from the series: “The people you meet on your journey are the ones who make it all worthwhile.” That sentiment captures the heart of what I’ve learned this year. The journey may not always be easy, but the connections we forge along the way—both real and fictional—make it a journey worth taking.

How has your community (in whatever form it takes) helped you find strength and joy? I’d love to hear your reflections as we close out this year and step forward into the next, together. ♥