Something Good Every Day — Memories…
Today’s good came from memories—specifically the silly or unexpectedly fond ones that pop up and tug you back to another version of yourself.
The first hit while I was watching a movie at work. Someone slammed down a phone to end a call, and I felt an immediate wave of nostalgia. I was never the “angry hang-up” type, but there was something satisfying about physically slamming a receiver onto a cradle. It had weight. It had oomph. People today will never know the catharsis of hanging up with authority. Now it’s just… tapping a red circle. Very civilized. Very boring.
The second memory arrived courtesy of an algorithm. YouTube recommended a tutorial series for a video game I barely played—but it transported me straight back to the COVID shutdown, when I spent two months skiing in Utah.
The first month I lived in this great little apartment that overlooked a mountain. End of the block, trailhead right there. On days I didn’t ski, I hiked or biked the trails. I had a nook where I could sit, read, and stare out at the ridgeline. I downloaded that video game and messed with it a little—not much, but enough that it’s braided into the memory of that view, that quiet. I also remembered the Thursday “live” online trivia nights with Bob and Sheila. Something small, but I miss that.
The second month I stayed somewhere less charming—no mountain view—, but it was attached to a coffee shop, which was its own kind of cozy. I’d teach in the mornings, then drive twenty minutes to Snowbasin, where by 12:30 I’d be clipping into my skis. Weekday skiing meant no lift lines. I’d ride down the mountain and ski straight onto the next chair. That kind of solitude-in-motion stays with you.
These were good memories, and I hope I make more like them—not all as goofy as landline-phone theatrics, but still. I’m at the point in life where I look back and think things were better when I was growing up in the ’70s and ’80s. The 90s and early 2000s weren’t bad either. To be fair to myself, I’ve been able to appreciate and enjoy every stage of my life, though the 50-59 age group has been a lot more challenging. Still, I’m sure when I’m 70 (if I can hold out), I’ll look back fondly on now, too.
Today, the good was remembered. And being grateful, I’ve had moments worth remembering.
It’s great to be alive.