Nostalgic for Now?
Have you ever wondered the question “Will I ever be nostalgic for NOW?” Meaning, have you ever wondered to yourself if you would later look back on the current, present situation and feel nostalgic?
My nostalgic memory for the day is the weekend after my week of training at my school, back in August. Each day of training was grueling: mock teaching, and the anxiety radiating in the air of the classroom. It was horrific to present halfassed lesson plans to a trainer and other new trainees. It’s ironic that the very same classrooms we were trained in would later be commandeered by us newbie instructors.
Anywho, back to the memory at hand, after that grueling week, we celebrated. We had an entire week to do whatever we wished before the start of the Fall term. I remember the night after my last training session James was holding a grill-out at his house. Greg and Victor invited me, but I felt as if the shindig was for me. I hope I don’t sound too selfish in saying that, but here’s how I believe this thought. When the three of us arrived, James had chips and salsa ready, served alongside chilled bottles of Corona. He had burgers grilling and chili simmering in a pot on the stove. “Skyline Chili, he promised.” I was in Hog Heaven. I remember cooling outside on his porch, sitting on the edge of the balcony. I was warned to be careful, but I felt fine.
I heard music from inside. First it was Air, from the “Virgin Suicides” soundtrack. But as the night descended upon us, Greg Dulli’s voice.
“James, is this Afghan Whigs?” I didn’t need an answer: I felt Cincinnati all around me. Sure, I was surrounded by friends from L.A., New Jersey, and Korea, but I felt at home, thanks to James and the shindig. I met my boss for the first time, cemented real bonds with new friends, and finally felt I was at the right place at the right time.
Later that night, I tried Soju for the first time. I vowed to never drink that rancid stuff again. Six months later and I’m laughing about that promise. Yeah, right.
This is a beautiful little piece and I really enjoy the idea of pondering what moments you will be nostalgic of later on. It’s a really cool theme to explore. Hope you’re doing well.