Memories that Create Auras

As I age, some memories throughout my life create a feeling within me that elevates my spirit. These memories not only permit me to recall the events that created the memory, but also the context of the events. Where was I? What was I experiencing for which the events registered in a different way than other memories? Why did the events cause the intensity of my emotional response to etch a permanent place in my heart? When an event occurs at a moment of vulnerability or compassion or love, for me the timing of the event and context collide and form a memory that is retained on a level that is always with me. When I bring these memories to the surface, I am, once again, within the aura of the memory…

“Christmas, 1971. Early morning departure, Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Saigon, Vietnam.

Departure at sunrise for a reconnaissance mission over Cambodia. Decades old twin engine tail-dragger EC-47 climbing through a low-lying overcast sky. As usual with early morning departures in the Vietnamese winter, flying on instruments. Breaking out of the solid cloud-base into canyons of early morning majestic cumulus towering above us with colors ranging from deep purple, through crimson cloud layers to pink and white cloud tops that reached into the cobalt blue morning sky.

Tuning to the Armed Forces Radio Vietnam frequency, my headset rang with the joyus and heart wrenching sounds of the Hallelujah Chorus. The crescendo of this magical opus in a land so very far from Texas was overwhelming. The backdrop of the skyscape that accompanied the familiar and magnificent symphony ringing in my ears created emotions that were both surprising and intense. My co-pilot,  Dan, and I openly welcomed Christmas by unabashedly experiencing tears of longing for home accompanied by gratitude and joy! Lifetime cherished memory! Memory with an aura that places it in a special place in my heart.”

Merry Christmas to each of you. May your aura memories bring you peace and joy.