Memories

During my recent move from California to Oregon I found a box containing photographs dating back 40 years. The years had faded many of the photos, but my recall of the events surrounding them was crystal clear. They brought forth a range of emotions including joy, appreciation, melancholy, and sadness. I particularly was moved by photos of my best friend’s wedding where I had the honor of serving as his best man. Paul was one of the first to succumb to the COVID virus. I wished he had been here today for me to share the happier moments in his life through the many pictures I had of the day he married. I also found a number of photos of my parents who have since passed. I felt grateful for having them in my life for as many years as I did. I think back to times when I sorted through photos of generations asking myself who many of these people were. I realize that I have the opportunity to change that by writing a brief description of the picture and who was in it. Perhaps future generations will have a clearer story of the years I spent on this planet. When was the last time you went through your photo albums and what story would you want them to tell about you?