Recently I was reminded of something that happened about 37 years ago.
The event wasn't that earth shattering, but it did leave a lasting impression, as I was still able to recount it in great detail. If only my short-term memory was that good.
The story may have involved performing circle work in a WB Holden ute, running into a concrete post, pilfering said post and erecting it out in the scrub, where it reputedly still stands to this day.
As I recounted this story, the other alleged person who was there stood looking very sheepish and nodding in agreement.
On other occasions I have been in groups where a couple of people start telling a story where only they understand the context.
I always find it amazing how you can take yourself straight back to that place in your mind, even if it happened many years prior. The sights, sounds, and sometimes smells, can be quite vivid.
At times like this, it is clear that all the parties involved understand each other almost by osmosis, as it only takes a couple of words or a look, and everyone knows exactly what they mean.
As you get older, these memories are quite special.
The people you share them with may only come into your life spasmodically, but you share a special connection nonetheless.
Conversely, sometimes the memories that can be invoked with people you come across later in life may not be good ones. If this is the case, hopefully everyone has matured a bit since then, and you can all move on.
If one side has moved on and the other person can't let it go, there is nothing that can be done about it. We all have a choice in how we react to certain situations.
Regardless of whether the experience was positive or negative, there are always lessons to be learned and applied in later life.
It may be that you handle situations differently, or perhaps you seek out similar experiences.
The same phenomenon applies to sporting teams.
Past players can come together many years after winning the flag and there is an undeniable bond there that is unspoken. Shared experiences are very powerful.
Some memories are buried deep in the subconscious, only to bubble to surface in later years. It may be a fleeting interaction that brings them back into the present time.
In some cases, someone may have a gut feeling about a particular person or subject, and can't pin-point why.
On occasion an epiphany moment may occur, or the real reason may become evident over time. Or you may never get to the bottom of it.
It does pay to listen to your inner voice, however.
The bottom line is that memories and connections with people should be cherished. These are all part of life's fabric and have played their role in shaping the person you are now.
Besides, who doesn't like rehashing old stories, and possibly embellishing them a bit.
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