Memo
Moments worth savingSome moments arrive with a certain scent or light, linger briefly, and then slip away.
Some feelings cannot be captured by lenses; some memories resist being archived in images.
Perhaps leaving a written copy of those impressions is the gentlest and most effective way to resist forgetting.
Notes from 2025
New home
On moving night we set the little lamp on the floor while boxes still filled the room. We used cardboard boxes as a table and ordered takeout. Only after waking up the next day did it feel like we had truly moved in.
Small coastal escape
We impulsively headed to a seaside town. At dawn we arrived at the station and warmed up with soy milk by the plaza. A walk along the promenade left my hat askew as the sea breeze tugged it around. On the way back I tucked the ticket into my wallet.
Nighttime stroll home
The shop signs at the corner had changed twice since I last came by. The rain had just stopped and the pavement still shimmered. I stood for a while before moving on.
Old bookstore
When it rained, I ducked into a secondhand bookstore; the bell chimed with every visitor. I picked up a collections of essays and read a few pages inside. The owner wrapped the book in yesterday’s newspaper.
Candlelit dinner
During a power outage we ate by candlelight. The meal was simple, but the apartment was so quiet we could hear the rain outside. Afterwards I restocked the spare candles.
Framed memories
While sorting an album I chose two old photos to share a single frame. Placed by the window, they caught the morning light just right. Passing by now invites an extra look.
Reuniting after years
A friend I hadn’t seen in years visited. We strolled to the river and chatted until late, yet there was still so much left unsaid. Before we parted we promised not to wait so long next time.
Nighttime runs
As the air cooled, I started running at night, following the same long street. One lamp after another passed by, and the footsteps echoed clearly. I slept well afterward.
The year had no grand events, but it left many quiet moments worth recalling.
Notes from 2024
Evening by the river
I sat by the river at dusk while distant music played. The wind was gentle, and the water reflected shards of light. I stayed until the sky darkened.
Handwritten letter
I wrote a letter to a friend far away, using two sheets of paper. Only at the end did I realize how rarely I say some of the things I really feel. I read it through one more time before mailing it.
Weekend in the neighboring town
A weekend trip to a nearby town included a local breakfast. I brought back a few postcards and taped them above my desk. It was a short trip, but it felt restful.
Notes from 2023
First snow
The first snowfall was delicate, and the street was quiet. I stood by the window for a long time watching.
Reading corner
I repainted the old bookcase and filled it with the books I read most. I left one shelf empty on purpose. At night I light a small lamp and sit there for a while.
Reunion with old friends
Long-separated friends gathered for a meal. Everyone had changed, yet the smiles still felt familiar. When the night ended, my heart felt warm.