"Would it be easy for you to watch someone you love walk off into the unknown?" Beverly points out gently. "Friend or family member doesn't matter. Of course it isn't settled, but it isn't my choice. I'd never be able to force anyone to change their minds about something like this. I wouldn't want anyone else to try to change mine."

Some people might think of her as passive because of her distaste for pressuring others or arguing about less consequential things. Her personal inner strength is in her ability to love and accept anyone. No matter what happened in the past.

As for coping mechanisms... there aren't really any good ones. Distractions, mainly, and the sheer belief that he's doing well. She keeps herself busy with her life. That's all she really can do.

"Sometimes I write him letters about what's happened to the crew or his friends. It's almost as good as having a conversation. Maybe one day I'll get a chance to show them."