A thought

[DG515]

Isn't it incredible how much a photograph can bring to mind an experience?

It never fails to happen to me. I'm going about my day and I come across a picture of someone or something that I miss and it makes me realize how much so.
I found a picture from Germany and I felt like I was 16 years old again, riding the strassenbahn into town to go to school, wind in my hair and german words in my head.
I saw a picture of rowdy and I could hear the sounds of his laughter in my ears, I could smell his curve in the air, and I could feel the warmth and security of snuggling into his shoulders while we sat on his porch swing, watching the sun coming up, and not saying a word.
I saw a picture of people that have long since moved on from my life, who I've not talked to in what seems like forever. I smiled and wanted to pick up a phone and see how they were. All the hateful words and hurtful feelings were gone.
I saw a picture from the prom my senior year and I remembered what it felt like to be beautiful. To have a handsome man on my arm, and to have all eyes on you as it takes them a minute to recongnize who I am.
I saw a picture from my pledge semester in DG. It made me feel like everything was new. I trusted everyone completely, and had no ill-will towards anyone at all.
I saw a picture from camp, and I could feel the warmth of the Kentucky sun on my bare shoulders. The sound of girls shrieking and giggling and gravel crunching under my feet filled my head and I couldn't think of anything else but sitting lake-side, feet in the clear water and the suns warmth.
I saw a picture that needs no description. It's one that means a lot to me.
I could feel the warmth of another person, the sounds they make when asleep, and the touch of a hand on the side of my face, absent-mindedly rubbing my cheek in their sleep. I felt content and secure.
And I cried.