If I Could Relive Any Childhood Memory

One of my most cherished childhood memories took place when I was 8 or 9 years old. My parents and I embarked on a taxi ride downtown to purchase my first bicycle. It was a timeless blue bike with chrome fenders, and the brand, Patria, was reminiscent of classic French bicycles like Peugeot. The lion logo on the handlebars was a striking detail that I still vividly remember. The strangest thing about this memory is that I don't recall any special occasion for the bike—no birthday celebrations or other major events. I was simply overwhelmed with joy and excitement, and I rode that bike for hours every day, from 8 AM until sunset. My youth was full of endless energy and unlimited happiness.

A Time of Distinctive Smells and Familiar Faces

When I was very young, my maternal grandparents cared for me during the week while my mother was at work. My grandfather, affectionately known as Pop, would sleep in a spare bedroom, always retiring at 9 PM. I, on the other hand, slept in the bed with my grandmother. The mornings were special, as I would wake up to the delicious smell of bacon and freshly made biscuits, two of my favorite foods. Unfortunately, my grandfather passed away when I was about 10 years old, and my grandmother passed away in the 2010s. I have cherished memories of those mornings and would love to experience them again, surrounded by the smell of her cooking and the adventures we shared with Pop.

Lost Loved Ones and Regrets

The loss of my parents haunts me deeply. My mother passed away in 2017 after a cardiac arrest due to an undiagnosed enlarged heart, and my father followed suit just three years later due to coronavirus. Despite the love we shared and the family vacations we enjoyed, my relationship with them was often strained. Looking back, I now understand how ungrateful and unappreciative I was. As a parent myself, I can see how I overlooked the precious moments with them. If I could relive any part of my childhood, I would want to hug them and express my gratitude for everything they did for me.

A Life-Course Event Set By a Father

Another unforgettable memory involves my father taking me to the Bridgeport Museum of Art, Science, and Industry when I was six years old in 1968. I recall wearing a “Space Suit” that Santa brought me, and our visit to the little planetarium. That single morning at the museum was a pivotal moment that set my life’s course. It filled me with a sense of wonder and exploration, and I will always be grateful for those shared moments. If I could go back in time, I would relive that special day with my father and revisit the museum.

As we reflect on our lives, it's important to cherish the moments that shape us and seek out ways to express gratitude and appreciation for the loved ones who have crossed our paths.