Wednesday, September 09, 2015

人情 :: 礼物


Before we left Lijiang, had a fair bit of re-packing to do. Sure, our suitcases were way lighter and we 'threw out' many items brought along. Accumulated treasured memories both in the cameras and in my mind. Plenty to cherish. Left Yunnan with an unexpected pile of presents warmly gifted by lovely new acquaintances.

Precious items selected with care. Tibetan keychain with yak-hair and beads, hand-woven yak-wool shawls, and silver hand-made Naxi bangles. They know I'm not fond of bright colors and patterns and all that. So these particularly muted color combinations have been selected with that in mind. Love that little skull on the Tibetan keychain. Since I'm not a necklace or earrings person, the bangles suit me. They sound fun when stacked up against one another.

Was there some sort of bond? Yes. Permanent? I doubt it. We share very little in common, and I'm just a passing human in their lives who doesn't matter in their life choices. But these gifts are a way to remember the good times, the kindness shown to us, shared songs and laughter.

Reach back for the joy and the sorrow Put them away in your mind The mem'ries are time that you borrow To spend when you get to tomorrow 
Here comes the saddest part (comes the saddest part) The seasons are passing one by one So gather moments while you may Collect the dreams you dream today Remember, will you remember The times of your life 
~ 'Times of Your Life' sung by Paul Anka in 1975; melody by Roger Nichols and lyrics by Bill Lane

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