It's been an agonizing few months waiting for Grey's Anatomy to return on ABC to see if it's possible for Shonda Rhimes to break our hearts even more. But folks, the week has finally arrived and I can almost guarantee Rhimes will indeed find a new way to emotionally torture us when Grey's returns this Thursday. There is someone who heartbreakingly isn't going to be returning with the rest of the cast and that character is Derek Shepherd. Although I'm still not entirely over the loss of that amazing man, I feel as though I've put enough time into the last twelve seasons that I can't stop watching now which I'm sure is how some of you feel as well. Here are some of Derek's finest moments and quotes that I think we ought to remember going into this twelfth season Derek-less.

1.)

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Let's start here. He always had such a positive and happy attitude about his job. Some of the things he saw at work were traumatizing and often seemed hopeless, but he never let this discourage him. To Derek, it was always truly a beautiful day to save lives.

2.)

Life is short; it's one of the oldest quotes in the book. You hear it time and time again from friends, relatives and neighbors all trying to tell you how short life really is and to live in the moment. But doesn't it just sound so much better coming out of Derek Shepherd's beautiful mouth?

3.)

And then there was this impressive speech. Take it from someone who has experienced a whole lot of pain and witnessed a lot of death. Derek knows how hard it can be to keep fighting, but how good things will turn if you can just stay alive.

4.)

So yes, we can admit that Derek is easy on the eyes, but he was always so good to Meredith that it was easy to love him for more than his looks. He loved her so much he really believed his life depended on her. What a lucky woman.

5.)

When Derek actually decides to tell Meredith how he really feels, your heart melts. I think I might actually have this quote memorized. I want a lifetime with you too, Derek.

6.)

Plus, he never let the nickname get to his head, did he? Okay, well maybe he did, but it's still fitting regardless!

Are you crying yet? I know I am. So grab yourself a box of tissues (and maybe a box of wine) to start preparing yourself for Thursday night. Of course we will miss Derek, but we really need to be there for Mer during her time of need. Plus I'm sure there will be many more plot twists and new characters to keep our mind off things. Welcome back to the Grey's days!