The Sweet Sorrow of Nostalgia

While rearranging my bookshelf this morning, I came across ‘My Book of Bible Stories’. I felt nostalgic as it took me back to when I knew almost all the stories in the book. When we will gather in the compound as kids taking turns to narrate the stories therein to the best of our understanding and capabilities. It filled me with ecstasy remembering those moments I used to tell my friends not to look back so they don't become pillars of salt like the biblical Lot's wife as recounted in the story ’LOT’S WIFE LOOKED BACK’, my favorite story of the legendary Christian book.

But, can I get those moments back? No, I can only bask in the euphoria of the beautiful memories it created and the sadness that those moments are gone for good.

The word nostalgia comes from the Greek words 'nostos' meaning 'homecoming' and 'algia' meaning 'pain'. It's a bittersweet emotion, often tinged with sadness but also with a sense of warmth and comfort.

We have all experienced moments of nostalgia. Perhaps, it's the aroma of freshly fried akara that reminds you of Saturday mornings or the sound of your favorite song that takes you back to your high school days. These moments can trigger a flood of emotions and memories, both happy and sad. But what is it about nostalgia that makes it so powerful?

On the one hand, nostalgia brings us a sense of comfort and connection to our past. It reminds us of happy memories and loved ones. But on the other hand, nostalgia can also bring up feelings of sadness and loss. The things we are nostalgic for are often things we can never get back. This uniqueness is what makes nostalgia a mixed bag of emotions.

Although nostalgia brings bittersweet emotions, there are some hidden benefits to experiencing this feeling. 

Research has shown that nostalgia can boost our mood, make us feel more connected to others, and give us a greater sense of meaning and purpose. So, even though nostalgia can feel like longing for the past, it can be a source of strength and resilience, helping us to cope with life's challenges - American Philosophy Association American Philosophy Association

Think of the TV show 'Super Story'. Its entire premise is built on nostalgia, as it takes place in the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s, and is full of references to the pop culture of that time. For many viewers, this sense of nostalgia is part of what makes the show so enjoyable. It reminds them of a time when they were younger and life was simpler. It gives them a sense of comfort and connection to their past.

Nostalgia can also be a dangerous emotion if it causes us to dwell too much on the past. It can lead to a sense of longing and regret, and make us feel unsatisfied with the present. It can even prevent us from moving forward and embracing new experiences. So, while nostalgia can be enjoyable in a way, it's important to balance it with a focus on the present and future.

Nostalgia doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing experience. Instead, you can enjoy its many benefits by incorporating small nostalgic moments into your daily/weekly life by reading an old book, going through a photo album, listening to an old song, watching an old movie, visiting your old neighborhood (if it’s close), or even buying an old cologne. Also, keeping a gratitude journal that includes past and present things you are grateful for and reminiscing on them can make you enjoy the benefits of nostalgia without getting lost in the past.

It's important to strike a balance between embracing nostalgia and living in the present. Finding this balance means being mindful of the present moment and appreciating the people and experiences that are happening right now. 

It also involves focusing on the things you now have that were lacking in the past. For example, you may feel nostalgic for your childhood home, even though you now live in a modernized and more sophisticated home. Focusing on these present-day benefits can help you feel grateful for what you have now, while still appreciating the nostalgia of the past. 

By balancing nostalgia with the present, we can enjoy the best of both worlds.

……Sweet Lilian