The Writer’s Coin

A few months ago, my uncle came in from out of town for a visit. M and I were excited to show off the new apartment we had just moved into and I was just happy to have some family around.

We went to dinner at a nice little place near our apartment and then we all walked back to show off our place. My uncle had brought along another couple. E, who brought his wife, is also family. Distant, but still family.

So we got back and showed them the view, the rooftop, our place, etc. They were all very impressed and my uncle joked about an apartment of mine he saw in Boston once, which was horrible. “Big difference,” he said.

Then I noticed E staring out the window into Montrose harbor and Lake Michigan. He was usually very chatty but that night he seemed quiet. Then he turns around and starts to talk.

“I’m very happy for you guys. This reminds me of when we (with his wife) started going out and how happy we were. Really, enjoy this, things look great for you too. This is the happiest time of your life. You have no responsibilities except to yourself, so enjoy your apartment, this view, the city. Make the most of it. It’s only going to get more complex. So really, enjoy this.”

It really struck me. He wasn’t regretful or anything like that, it was just one of those rare moments of pure honesty and happiness for another person.

After they left I turned to M and asked her if she heard what E had said. Then we both stared out the window at the lights below. It’s weird trying to wrap your head around the idea that NOW is the happiest time of your life. Either way, I’m giving it my best shot.

Tags: Happiness