avenoir – n. the desire that memory could flow backward
We take it for granted that life moves forward. But you move as a rower moves, facing backwards—you can see where you’ve been, but not where you’re going. And your boat is steered by a younger version of you. It’s hard not to wonder what life would be like facing the other way…
Source: John Koenig: The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows
So much of this was transportive and at the same time disconcerting – yet all of it, beautiful.
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Exactly Mimi. I describe it as “arresting”
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So, so touching!!
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It is Carol, thank you.
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Either way we still have to leave this world. Everyday is a gift I am glad I don’t know the future. Very interesting to contemplate David.
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Yes Karen. I found this post to trigger gratitude for Now.
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Reblogged this on It Is What It Is and commented:
AVENOIR!!!
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i love the word, but don’t want to know ahead of time, i prefer for it to unfold in it’s own time and the order – i am fascinated by the concept of moving back and forth through time, and our presence in it, so i loved the video.
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Yes Beth. I’m aligned squarely with you. I did find myself yearning for exactly what we have today, rather than wanting something different. Gratitude for Present, for Now.
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yes, life is all about the now.
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and for some reason your comment (and your love for children) triggered a memory of this:
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thank you so much for sharing this, dk. the last three lines are what every child needs to hear and to know to be true, the rest will take care of itself with practice. i love this.
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It’s all You Beth.
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it’s the only way i know.
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Autumn is a time of reflection for me, and I take it as a duty to myself. I once lost a dear friend and did not attempt to grieve because of the pain it brought. Months and then years later, I could not put the pain associated with that dear person’s memory behind me because the agony had grown so terrible. Years later, I had to find a way to grieve so I could let the pain of loss finally pass. So, look to the future, but remember to not avoid the pain because it will become a sea anchor that will always drag you back no matter how hard you row.
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Thanks for sharing Dan. You took me along with you with your grief. Your thoughtful and poignant comment reminded me of a passage I just read:
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So beautifully poignant…
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It is Carol.
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Really makes you think, David. Thank you for sharing. It inspired me to write a story for Thanksgiving and include John’s quote and video. 🙂
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It does make you think Pat. So glad that this post inspired you with an idea for your story.
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Me, too, David, glad to write my story and for your inspiration. Your words were lovely and thought provoking. I liked it and am happy I found you. I look forward to more of your perspectives.
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Thank you Pat. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.
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For you, as well, David. Wishing you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving. 🙂
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