—
I was walking toward the beach the other day when I passed it in the window of a pawnshop. It was immediate nostalgia. I could almost smell the old school perfume emanating from it. She wore it religiously. I think it was a gift from someone dear. She always had a story about it. The diamond necklace that the kids used to play with.
I’m guessing if there is a twin piece out there then the diamonds may have been fake. Or not? It is in a pawn shop near me after all. It doesn’t matter though. The memories flood back and for a moment I am a kid again.
It’s incredible which memories stick with you. It makes me think about the impact that we have on our kids, our grandkids. The generational differences that separate us yet make us stand out and be remembered. It makes me think about the power of connection, and the importance of spending time with family, especially in a generation that is so digitally connected, so “virtual” and lacking reality. I think we forget that from time to time. Or all the time?
What’s the Michael Fox quote again? Family is not an important thing. It’s everything. How true is that? At the moment, it blows my mind.
Moments like these, and moments like those from the past are a reminder that we need to take the time to live and love today, to acknowledge others, to be thankful and grateful, and most of all to be present. Present for ourselves, present for our kids, or spouses, our loved ones and to do so with intention.
It feels like a Vegas gamblers luck that I am here, alive and well, doing my thing, while so many out there can’t say the same. I am grateful. I sure as hell ought to be.
As I resume my walk to the beach I breathe in the ocean breeze, feel the sun on my skin, and make a promise to myself that I will call my mom and dad and check-in. It’s been an LA minute.
—
This content made possible by site supporter Mendi Baron
Photo: Getty Images