Storeroom of memories

A task I was given, to write a piece on memories

But did I really want to open up that book

Take a look in dusty corners, and crumpled files
Long forgotten:

So I held the subject for a day or so, within the entrance of my mind
Then when I had the time and courage
Turned the key
Pushed open the door
The light was dim, the room so dark.
Very obvious to me
I had not used ,or paid attention to all the grey matter laying about
Piles of thoughts not rearranged for a very long time

Taking a step forward I bumped into a ledge
Boxes neatly stacked side by side.
Labels written over a period of about 54 years
my age in fact

Gently I removed the lid of the smallest, dated 1961
A child so small, excited about being a bridesmaid.
Then put to bed with Whooping cough ,
I had forgotten how let down I’d felt
Information and experiences recalled
Followed me around that store room,
As I examined each piece of knowledge.
Statistics I had no idea I’d held within my tired brain
My elbow clumsily knocked over the box on the end
Flash memory’s lit the room
As they bounced of the walls
1972 first kiss 1974 loss of virginity

University drama, broken hearts

And shattered dreams

Years spun within my mind whirling out of time
Dates muddled, yet some so very clear
1976 my own wedding, 1978 and 79 my sons were born

1999 the fear of cancer, 2000 all clear
Savoury tasty bits stopped me
I had to smile as I stood in that warm safe place
Letting them hold me close
Letting the secrets flood my mind

Then from the dark deep depths
Came names I’d forgotten

Those that wreaked my life

Leaving me to pick up the fragmented pieces
Sending shivers down my spine

Spinning in front of my eyes
Wagging fingers
Laughing, making fun. Tormenting.
I recalled why I had not thought of them in years
So we all have skeletons
Don’t we

In the store room of our memories

Where are they now, and do I care?

The answer to that I know is harsh,

But No, they should stay in the past