Nostalgia

What would we do without it? Ask someone who just found out they are in the early stages of Alzheimer's and I bet they'll tell you it'll be one of the things they will miss the most. Nostalgia hurts: it's a feeling that always seems to ache the chest. When we are smart and lucky enough to take the time to feel the past—the core of what nostalgia is—it makes the heart feel heavy to the point where you need to sit down. Is there a better feeling? I don't think so.

Don't get me wrong: I love to be happy—bring on the smiles, role out the laughter—but too much of it is boring. Most of the time, I much prefer nostalgia. I seem to learn a hell of a lot more.