If you're in a place, #20: Perfect Memories

#20: Perfect Memories

If you’re in a place, listen to the latest episode of Reply All, “The Case of the Missing Hit.” (Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Overcast)

I don’t want to spoil the episode because it’s a fucking ride. And an absolute joy.

But I’ll tell you this. The other day, I was talking to my best friend about some of my favorite memories of her. She said at one point when I mentioned that I was worried that some of those memories were fading, that I was worried I wasn’t able to recall them clearly anymore: “Maybe they’re better in your memory?” Like maybe my brain was painting a glorified image; a Rembrandt where stick figures were.

Don’t get me wrong. This happens. A lot. The mind repaints with a rosey brush.

But, sometimes, the best memories are perfect portraits. Screenshots that our brain doesn’t let go of. I think I have a few of these. Sometimes they’re simple. The taste of my favorite dish from my favorite restaurant. Ricotta dumplings. Pork sausage. Cavatelli. “Just like I remember it.” Sometimes it’s more important. The penciled lines that outline your favorite person.

The things, at the end of these long days, that bring us something resembling joy. There aren’t always many. I wish I could recall them all picture perfectly.