It was indeed a surprise for a notable few, and it left a bitter aftertaste in the back of the throats of those who knew him well. Change? Hardly. People don't change, they merely make different choices, and this would not be labelled as an exception.

The sudden tenacity of the entire situation certainly overwhelmed us. It shifted perspectives, stifled responses and imbibed our souls with the intoxicating lust for reason.

Can change occur without a reason, a motive? Or does the opportunity for something new merely present itself, tempting the soul with tastes of fresh pastures? Are we subject to a law of randomness, as ironic as that might sound, or a concept of calculated and regulated movements? I would have to believe in the latter.

But to follow the new paths of opportunity does not constitute a change, it simply signifies a different choice, an overblown desperation to appease oneself. Surroudings will change, no doubt, but the essence of the being will not be altered. People change? Never. A selfish illusion- splendid, horrendous and overbearing.

"Omnia mutantir, nihil obstat"- everything changes, but nothing is truly lost.

He did not change, he dubiously shifts his skin in disguise, slithering his way through different opportunities and openings.

And it certainly struck us with a repentant thought upon realisation of the truth. We felt the need to be surprised or shocked had no place left in this timid world.

The snake, while looking for new prey will eat his own tail.

Fare you well.