Bumblebee goes round a tree and…

I thought this was a common toddler rhyme, a tickle opportunity, a fun way to giggle with littles. Apparently not. But my family has carried the tradition for several generations. I remember it as a child. I bumblebee-ed my girls. And now my grands.

It’s funny what sticks. Well, I suppose sometimes it’s not funny because what sticks can be dysfunctional. But this is a silly thing to pass on to the next generation.

I often think about what we pass along and why, because there are good reasons and not-so-good reasons. We can’t copy/paste our memories. People are different. Times are different. Even the things we do the same are different, and that’s beautiful. There are often strands of memories threading years together but adding new smiles and laughs. Instead of copy/paste, it’s a highlighted reminder. It’s an additional deposit into a memory bank, and it’s usually the good kind.

How many moments of joy has that simple game spurred? How many smiles have been shared because of it?

Memories matter. It can be difficult to face missing memories due to deteriorated relationships or distance challenges. It can be difficult when someone we loved is no longer alive or if they changed and disconnected from us. Again, we can’t copy/paste because people and situations change, but we can appreciate the memories. We can acknowledge some pain yet savor the joy.

Memories can sting, but they can also create a buzz that lasts for generations.

I am thankful.

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