CHALLENGE #7

“Childhood memories were like airplane luggage; no matter how far you were traveling or how long you needed them to last, you were only ever allowed two bags. And while those bags might hold a few hazy recollections—a diner with a jukebox at the table, being pushed on a swing set, the way it felt to be picked up and spun around—it didn’t seem enough to last a whole lifetime.”

― Jennifer E. Smith

Memories are a vital component of our lives. They shape our personality as all our knowledge and past experiences are stored there. Childhood memories bring us back to the time when everything in the world seemed different. They help us to go back in time and feel ourselves those young creatures with big dreams and open heart for new adventures and discoveries.

So what can be more pleasant than looking through the old pictures from your distant childhood?

I set myself a new challenge: to upload a photo of me as a child in Instagram and write a story behind it.

It may not seem a complicated thing to do, because many people upload pictures from their childhood in Instagram. However, I am not used to sharing memories which have a special value for me. They are way too precious and, therefore, too personal. That is why I thought it would be a good push for me to leave my comfort zone.

So, I chose a funny picture of me holding a hedgehog in my hands. I was a 5 y.o. child with a face expressing a vivid feeling of joy and delight. Under the picture I posted I placed a full story of the amazing adventure that happened to me that day. It is one of my most favorite pictures and is a beautiful memory which always brings smile to my face.

When uploaded the pictures, I started to get lots of messages in the comments section. I got some positive feedback and many peopled said that they had similar stories from their childhood. It was pleasant to read memories of strangers and people I’ve known for a long time. Most of the stories were supported by positive emotions and childish:

“All grown-ups were once children... but only few of them remember it.”

― Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, The Little Prince