30 Days Writing Challenge: Day 3 — a Memory
I always keep memento from the past. Sometimes, I look back to revisit the memory. It could be anything. From random items — stones, feathers, leaves — to concrete one like letters or photographs.
Sentimental, I know.
Five years ago, I started my undergraduate studies in a small city in East Java. The weather is just perfect. It is different from where I come from. I was born in a land of eternal summer. Here, the weather will never be too cold that it wakes you up in the middle of the night. I loved being there. Like other students who moved out from their hometown, I chose to live by myself.
I encountered a small group of people that were with me since freshman year. I was lucky to have such supportive new friends. No hard feelings, just mutual respect.
My time there was short. Only three years. After graduation, I had to move back to where I come from, to prepare for another step in my future. One step at a time. But with all of those years, I did not only come back with new knowledge, but also memories that I have cherished until this day.
If that day were in, say…the 80’s.., leaving would be very hard. I feel grateful because today there are abundant platforms that reconnect people with their past, as well as keeping the moment present.
One call away, they say.
My friends gave me some letters that I still keep. These are some excerpts of those precious words — hope these messages transcend to you as well
“After this, we will part ways until God knows when, but please know that my prayers and support are always with you.”
“One by one, they must fly. You are the first. I believe your wings are strong enough to fly farther, higher. Don’t be afraid, things happen out of your control. They are tests, so that you never forget Him. The more you grow, the more the wind blows. Don’t be like them, because you are different.”
So long!
