What is your earliest memory? Do you remember specific events from your childhood? I don’t know if my brain space is all used up on song lyrics or what, but I just don’t have that many specific memories from my childhood. I have a general vague impression of things but lack details. I know my childhood was a good one, with lots of quality time with my parents and siblings, but I lack a lot of specific details. Are you the same way? Does this matter?
I have been spending every waking moment with my two nieces and nephew who are visiting from Colorado. We have been doing all kinds of fun and interesting things. I haven’t laughed so hard or been so exhausted in years.
And yet, sometimes in the quiet moments when I look at them doing what they are doing, I wonder if they will have any memory of this in years to come. Right now it is all fresh in their minds and we have shared a lot of “firsts” such as sliding down the rock into the freezing cold pool of water at Sliding Rock, challenging ourselves in Asheville’s Treetop Adventure Park, whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River, backpacking and camping on the Appalachian Trail at Max Patch, etc. But what will they remember from it in 10 years? 20? 30? Will they remember anything from their visit here to western North Carolina? If the answer to the last question was no, would it matter?
For me the answer would be no–that is, I wouldn’t change anything about their visit because I loved it; Because it is important to me to be a part of their life, because this time has strengthened our relationship, because even if they don’t remember it, I will! And because I believe that even if they don’t remember specifics, they will remember that their visit was fun, that it was filled with adventure, that they loved being here, and, maybe most importantly, that they felt loved while they were here.
And so… this week’s quote…
What memories have your added recently to YOUR memory bank? Are you giving love freely and frequently so that you can make the kind of memories that will last a lifetime?
Shar, thank you for writing this blog, I too have little detailed memories of my childhood but made the assumption it was because I blocked out things from moving so much. This is soooo true though, it’s just about spending time with those you love and sharing love,laughter, and memories with them. I know the kids are going to remember these times and they treasure them and YOU! Love you!
Shell
Shell, thanks for taking time to read and comment. I always thought I was the only one who had no specific childhood memories and have always wondered about this… glad to know I’m not alone. Your kids are awesome!! I loved every second with them.