One of the best memories I have of my ex-landlady is the picture of her sipping her juice or drinking water. She drank with so much delight and gusto that you’d wonder if some stimulants were inadvertently added to her drink. She would always place her left hand on the table, tilt her head and close her eyes as she lifts the glass. Then, she would lower her labbro and allow the drink to trickle down her ageing throat. She enjoyed the small stuff that one would easily rush over.

We shared the building at the time, so each time I returned from the hospital, she’d ask me to come around so we could cook and eat together while watching our favourite TV programs – usually an Opera, a political show or something on history. And we would discuss till late into the night, especially when we were not leaving early the following day.

Other days she’d ask me to come downstairs so we could study together. While I read my medical materials, she’d be at the other end reading autobiographies, politics and history books mostly. Afterwards, we’d spend time exchanging ideas – not really exchanging because she did most of the teaching while I did most of the learning, writing down the wisdom that exuded from her soprano voice. I always asked many questions and she always delighted her nipotino (as she fondly called me) with her answers. She used to be a teacher after all.

Unfortunately, I don’t get to see her now and won’t be doing so for a long time but these and many more memories of our time together remain with me. And whenever I remember them, I’ll simply smile and mouth her name.

You see, while chasing that all-important dream, NEVER forget to enjoy, as well as appreciate, the little moments with and gestures of people who truly care for you. Don’t get irritated when they desire your company for just a few minutes.

Observe how they talk, smile, eat, drink, dress, sing, dance, walk etc. and inhale every little fragrance they reveal. Also, at intervals add this, “thank you for the little big things you do to show that you care.”

If you neglect these, you might open your eyes one day to discover that they’re gone – maybe not through death but they may have given up on trying to get your attention, or they’re unable to replicate those affectionate gestures anymore because of physical inabilities – and you’ll have nothing left but guilt and regrets.

Little moments leave Big memories when lived. Enjoy the small things. Cherish the little moments. Ecclesiastes 5:18-20.

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