Yesterday I began the process of selling my past. After having a lengthy spiritual conversation with my father (he passed away when I was 19), I posted a few of his WWII collectibles on eBay in hopes of getting a decent price. I need to fund my move to the island, after all, and I have many vintage items that belonged to my parents which should bring some substantial cash.
Daddy was in the army in WWI and the navy in WWII. He was a patriotic man, who cried during every televised Boston Red Sox game when the national anthem was played. Upon returning home from England, where he served as a Storekeeper during WWII, he brought with him two solid brass ashtrays made from artillery shells. Engraved on the bottom with dates, descriptions and the US Navy seal, Daddy was especially proud of those two treasures. I have no clear idea what they might be worth, but I know what they're worth to me, and I hope someone will treasure them as both my father and I did.
When I decided to make this move, I knew it might be difficult to part with a lot of these memories. For days I tried to steel myself against the impending onslaught of tears I knew would come with each separation. When friends tell me how courageous I am, that they could never do this, I tell them, "oh, yes you could!". It's simply preparing yourself mentally...accepting that there will be painful moments...and knowing that the end will justify the means.
I've been fortunate to have many meaningful pieces of my past with me, but although I must now part with them, the memories themselves will always be a part of me. I choose to look at the transition as a liberating experience. I sometimes feel that Americans are a little too fond of shopping and collecting things that fill some void in our lives. "Things" truly aren't what make us happy. Giving and receiving love, helping others, the many beauties of nature, family and good friends...these are the things that bring true happiness.
So I will leave the United States with a suitcase, a carry-on bag and my laptop...stripped of all other material possessions. My load will be light, and so will my spirit. I will be filled with excitement and anticipation, eager to experience a new culture and a new environment, ready to make new friends, try new foods. But I will bring my memories with me, and the love of family and good friends. I will make a new life, and it will be wonderful.
