Treasured Objects

(photo by Kevin Woblick on Unsplash)

Most of us possess objects that have been passed down from older family members. Usually, one or more of these hold a powerful sentimental attachment. They bring us back to a long-gone place and time, often childhood, when we were more innocent or carefree. Sometimes there’s also a certain sensory trigger when we touch, hold, or smell this object.

For me, I treasure my mother-in-law’s antique roll-top desk. She died last year, and I adored her. Inside the desk was a collection of love letters from her different suitors over the years. It wasn’t my place to read them, but my husband did spend the time going through them, reflecting on where and with whom she had spent her life. It was a deeply moving experience.

Now that I am a writer, I appreciate using this desk as part of my own creative space. The desk has many small compartments, perfect for storing the tools of the trade, such as paper clips, staples, etc. I love imagining what she had hidden in there over the course of her lifetime. Perhaps she tucked a little “pin money” for a treat, or a naughty cigarette, or some special candy she was saving for herself, after the kids went to bed.

The desk is made of dark, smooth, heavy cherry wood. It feels cool to the touch, even on the hottest summer days. I imagine her polishing it with lemon oil as she cleaned her house. I can still feel her warm, cheerful presence around me whenever I am writing.

Do you have a treasured possession that was passed down to you? Please subscribe/ leave a comment below.