It’s the aroma of a cherished dish, evoking memories of family gatherings and laughter echoing through time. It’s the serene comfort of reuniting with old friends, where words flow effortlessly and silence speaks volumes.

It’s the beloved garment that no longer fits, yet holds the essence of who we once were. The melody of a favorite song, the poignant lyrics that resonate with our soul, and the lingering scent of a partner’s cologne, all transport us to moments frozen in time. The gentle glide of a pen on a napkin, the soft, cushioned feel beneath our fingers, grounding us in the present while connecting us to the past.

Nostalgia is the warmth that blooms in our chest as we lose ourselves in a captivating movie or a well-loved book. It’s the mental journey through memories of family, red wine, and laughter so intense it brings tears. It’s the bittersweet tears themselves, a testament to the depth of our experiences.

It’s the joy and contentment found in sharing old stories with dear friends, the familiar itch of wool and cotton against our skin, a reminder of simpler times. It’s the essence of love, or at least what we believe love to be, a complex blend of joy and sorrow, hope and heartache.

Nostalgia is the lump in our throat when faced with news, good or bad, a visceral reaction to the ebb and flow of life. It’s the collective “us”—you, me, and them—bound by shared experiences and memories.

Pause for a moment, take in your surroundings, and recognize the fortune in your life. Embrace the nostalgia, for it is more than mere memories; it is a living, breathing part of you, a bridge between the past and the present, a testament to a life richly lived.

©️ Beatriz Esmer