Nostalgia

 

A developmental molecular biologist, John Medina,
Assures us that nostalgia has life-giving power. I’d never realised
That. Maybe I have been reading the wrong books. Apparently, the
Good old days not only have an unsurpassable, and highly prized

Charm, but they confer many cognitive benefits, when one revisits
Them. So much so, that people who experience nostalgic stimuli
Regularly, are psychologically better off than those who don’t. It’s
Alright then to venture back across the ocean of time! Suddenly, I

See it all so clearly. This craft will be surging, almost flying, taking me 
Back to that village. What joy! I will be back on an outrigger, cutting
Through the waves like a copra plantation worker’s machete,
The great bladed oar ready to row, then ‘Sail up!’ We are shunting,

Staying permanently to windward. As we cruise at speed, I recall
Why the canoe’s hull is so strong, for it has been made from the tree 
Of many names:

  Calophyllum inophyllum   punnag        tacamahac 
  mastwood                 punnai        Indian laurel            
  beauty leaf              beach touringa 

Great wood for boat hulls and spars, source of oil for scars, burns and acne,
Insect bites, cuts; plus psoriasis, blisters, and scrapes. Should
I now return to today, on this surge of of keenness? Is it time to be
Present again? I think it’s wise. It’s all very well to cast off and sail

Away on a short therapeutic holiday to boost that eudaimonic
Well being, to prioritise all those positive memories, bring back a tale,
To help one’s reminiscing, but not to return would be far too chaotic.

So, our memory trip needs to conclude, but on a gentle note. As it slows,
Bring your craft alongside, and attach it to the ship you are on,
SS Present day moment. The long, large-bladed oar you can stow
With the square sail. Now, your past is ready again to recline on!