31/05/2025
The Lamp of Memories
In the heart of our village, nestled among the hills, there stood a humble home filled with the warmth of family and the flickering glow of a paraffin lamp. This lamp was not just a source of light; it was a beacon of hope and resilience during the years when darkness enveloped our surroundings after sunset.
As children, we would gather around the table, books spread out before us, the soft glow illuminating the pages. The lamp cast dancing shadows on the walls, creating a magical atmosphere that made learning feel like an adventure. It was during these late-night study sessions that we developed a love for knowledge, each flicker of the flame inspiring us to chase our dreams.
However, the lamp came with its challenges. The smell of paraffin lingered in the air, a constant reminder of its presence. It was a sharp, almost suffocating scent that intermingled with the smoke that wafted from the flame, filling our lungs and leaving a film on our clothes. Yet, we learned to endure. We opened the windows to let in the cool night air, allowing the stars to peek into our little world of study.
From the year I can remember until 2007, this lamp was our constant companion. It witnessed our struggles and triumphs, the late nights spent memorizing lessons and the laughter shared over stories. Each flicker of the flame was a testament to our perseverance, our determination to succeed despite the odds stacked against us.
The arrival of electricity in our village was a momentous occasion. It brought with it a new era- one of convenience and ease. The lamp, once a vital part of our lives, was relegated to a cherished relic of the past. We smiled as we flipped the switch, basking in the bright, steady light, but a part of us mourned the loss of those simpler times.
Today, as I look back at the memories forged in the glow of that lamp, I realize it symbolized more than just light. It represented resilience, unity, and the spirit of survival. It reminded us of the rich history we carried within us, a history filled with challenges that shaped who we are today.
In the quiet moments of reflection, I can still smell the paraffin and feel the warmth of that flickering flame, a lasting reminder of our journey through the darkness and into the light.
Branislavjacob
Cc: 2025