Memories

~Those who have played a big part in one's life very rarely disappear from it suddenly for good. They return to it at odd moments (so much so that people suspect a renewal of old love) before leaving it together. ~ Marcel Proust

What brings people together? One theory is Fate, two people meet at the right place, at the right time. A lot of people pass us by, but what makes us stop in our tracks and notice that person?

Whatever the reason is, I have noticed that people re-surface again and again to give you answers to some unresolved questions about yourself, about that person, and about your relationship.

It's sad when a person who makes a mark in your life leaves. This, however is not the abyss. The abyss is loss, when that person or yourself has nothing more to give or receive and ultimately leaves forever. All that remains are snippets of memories. These memories are unique in the sense that the person might not remember them or have a different version of them.

My fondest memories of a birthday was receiving an overseas call around midnight, instead of a "hello", was singing "Happy Birthday". Another fond memory would be carefully taping cat hair from a suit jacket. My way of saying "thank you" and getting a real "thank you" in return.

These are minutiae things. It's really nothing to other people, but what made it so special were the genuine feelings. The "Happy Birthday" call would not be so cherished if not for the feelings transmitted through the phone line. The act of taping cat hair would not have as much significance if not for the grateful feelings.

I do not believe these feelings could be felt twice, even with the same person. Every encounter is special and unique. Although people tell me it's really nothing, I choose to be grateful. Afterall, we are not entitled.

photo: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VPKjWinYGHGNZli5DYlLYxhqeAg8aPIZswooq2aLfKhvs3dxepG8xWzAyKBSUuKm764xijjagtmlPcysSmb1937cBCA90KQ6jxHFcAwdDoTqX-kxF3hfR2eA4ncNMN14pq8jSX3OFKMu/s320/2007_0914AutumnFlowerShow0106.JPG