It’s delicate but potent. In Greek, nostalgia literally means “the pain from an old wound”. It’s a twinge in your heart far more powerful than memory alone – a feeling of a place where we ache to go again. – Don Draper, Mad Men
Nostalgia.
Last month, I randomly asked a question to my followers on one of my social media accounts. I post questions on my story from time to time to connect with my followers, but the responses I received this time warmed my heart.
The question was: What’s one memory you have about any of our adventures, travels, shenanigans, and/or discoveries together?
Although I already knew that I had so many interesting memories, I did not realize how vividly I could still remember some of those experiences and that others I shared with also remembered the details of our encounters.
Fast forward to a little over a month later, I read one of the prompts for the Connect Live 2020 application - What’s the most interesting thing you’ve done as a Local Guide? After reading this, I immediately remembered the responses I received and answered to myself “create nostalgic memories”. I laughed, because I was not sure how I would even put that to words or explain what I meant but here we are.
The most interesting thing I have done as a Local Guide is create nostalgic memories - the kind of memories you wish to go back to.
I do this through the following:
-Writing- I write when I feel like expressing myself or when a random thought crosses my mind. I write just like I speak, so readers can get a sense of my voice through my writing and hopefully connect with what I have said.
-Eating- When I have a satisfying experience at a restaurant or eatery, I always share with at least two people – or the world, and hopefully readers can remember a similar taste they had. Even after sharing with the world, I make sure that I bring others to that same spot or add it to my list of places with a certain vibe!
-Capturing- When I take photos in general, I subconsciously ask myself “what’s the end goal?” or “what feeling do I want to evoke?” Even when I capture buildings, I do so in such a way one feels like he or she has been present.
My intention is never to create nostalgia as that is a bittersweet feeling. I simply strive to exchange a piece of myself in every experience and encounter I have – a way of life, thinking, or piece of advice. Warning: this could result in the creation of nostalgic memories!
Do you have any moments you long to experience again? What did you feel during that time? Share in the comments section!
Chinonso Onukwugha
