Memory

 

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   Memory
by Thomas Bailey Aldrich
 

My mind lets go a thousand things,
Like dates of wars and deaths of kings,
And yet recalls the very hour--
'Twas noon by yonder village tower,
And on the last blue noon in May--
The wind came briskly up this way,
Crisping the brook beside the road;
Then, pausing here, set down its load
Of pine-scents, and shook listlessly
Two petals from that wild-rose tree.

"Our value lies in what we are and what we have been, not in our ability to recite the recent past.” - Homer

  "Be kind for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." - Socrates

I was sad to learn today that tv presenter Fiona Phillips has Alzheimer's. Read here to find out more about her. 

Dementia, especially Alzheimer's is cruel and indiscriminatory. My father was diagnosed with it in his 90s, but Fiona Phillips is only 62.  Click here to read about the symptoms and support services available.

Today I volunteered at Memory Tree, a group that offers dementia support in Bradford. Our theme was 'Celebrations'. We recalled past birthday parties, weddings and anniversaries and had great fun playing party games. Keeping the balloon in the air with a fly swat was favourite. 

Writing prompts:

• Despite the poet's failing memory (above), he has no trouble recollecting a certain moment from his youth. He remembers the scent of pine. Is there a scent that evokes a particular memory for you? Write about it. 
• Do you agree with the the quotation from Homer? Write about 'what you are' and 'what you have been'.
• Do you know someone with dementia? Write about the person they were before the disease took hold.