What a pair of marvelous and delicate stories, I felt there. It reminded me of a story of mine of "private suffering" when I was getting on the plane for my exchange in Brazil (via Colombia) when I was 19. I got talking to a girl in the boarding room, we had immediate and profound chemistry, she was maybe 5-6 years older than me. Somehow managed to change seats to be together on the flight. We sat down and it was the perfect moment to kiss her. I couldn't bring myself to do it, and instead fell asleep. When I woke up the magic was gone.
It did teach me to seize the moment in later situations, to avoid the regret it brought me. But I still have guilt, or suffering, around that moment.
Thank you for these stories Tai, especially the second one. It was a kind of redemption to read it. Didn't realize other people had them as acutely as me haha and you named it so accurately.
'though how it could have played out otherwise is simply an exercise in private suffering.'
'Up until now, the most we had shared was the very air in the room.'
and many more.. Beautifully woven sentences, Tai — got me re-reading the piece. :)
Thank you for reading Nitya and your kindhearted reflections.
This, Tai. THIS! Beautiful stories with a common thread of heart delicacy and vulnerability. I want more. Keep them coming. I know you have plenty!
Thank you Silvio for your steadfast encouragement!
It is a reliable source of solace.
What a pair of marvelous and delicate stories, I felt there. It reminded me of a story of mine of "private suffering" when I was getting on the plane for my exchange in Brazil (via Colombia) when I was 19. I got talking to a girl in the boarding room, we had immediate and profound chemistry, she was maybe 5-6 years older than me. Somehow managed to change seats to be together on the flight. We sat down and it was the perfect moment to kiss her. I couldn't bring myself to do it, and instead fell asleep. When I woke up the magic was gone.
It did teach me to seize the moment in later situations, to avoid the regret it brought me. But I still have guilt, or suffering, around that moment.
Thank you for these stories Tai, especially the second one. It was a kind of redemption to read it. Didn't realize other people had them as acutely as me haha and you named it so accurately.
Thank you very much for reading and sharing this lovely anecdote.
That’s the same lesson I received on one level yet remains a lifelong practice — carpe punctum!
Time is short and ever changing.
Thanks for sharing these poignant and delicate scenes Tai.
Thanks for reading, Rick! We’re still overdue for that tea. I’ll reach out.
Your writing is pleasurable reading. Thanks.
Thank you very much Skywalker!