japdeguzman

[japdeguzman]

Photo by Anita Jankovic on Unsplash

They say the saddest song is the one that’s never been written. But for me, the saddest phrase in the entire English language isn’t a melody, it’s a whisper — “I used to.”

Three little words, strung together, that carry the weight of a thousand unspoken stories.

I used to love spending entire Saturdays curled up with a good book, getting lost in fantastical worlds. Now, the thought of staring at a page for minutes feels exhausting.

Maybe it’s the fatigue of modern life, the constant barrage of information, or perhaps just a shift in priorities. Whatever the reason, the joy of getting swept away in a story feels like a distant memory.

There are hobbies that used to be my haven — painting landscapes that blossomed with vibrant colors, the quiet hum of focus as my brush stroked the canvas.

Now, the paints sit untouched, their vibrancy a stark contrast to the dull ache of creative stagnation. Did the passion fade? Did life simply steal the time?

“I used to…” hangs heavy in the air, a question mark with no easy answer.

The things we love are often intertwined with the people we love. Remember those Friday night movie marathons with my best friend, fueled by endless bowls of popcorn and whispered secrets?

Now, scattered across different cities, lives taking on new shapes, those nights seem like a scene from a bygone era. “I used to…” takes on a tinge of loneliness, a yearning for a simpler time when connection seemed effortless.

But here’s the thing — “I used to…” doesn’t have to be a death knell for joy. Maybe the spark for reading has dimmed, but perhaps it’s time to explore audiobooks or podcasts that ignite my curiosity in a different way. Maybe the paints are gathering dust, but can I find a creative outlet in something new — photography, pottery, or even journaling?

As for those cherished friendships, distance doesn’t have to diminish the bond. Technology bridges the geographical gap, allowing for virtual movie nights or simply catching up on life’s twists and turns.

“I used to…” can transform into “I still cherish,” a reminder that some connections transcend time and space.

The truth is, change is inevitable. Our interests evolve, our priorities shift, and the things that once brought us joy might need to be revisited in new light. “I used to…” can be a springboard for rediscovery. It can prompt us to explore what sparks joy now, what ignites our passions in this current chapter of life.

Maybe the old hobbies won’t be revived, the worn teddy bear won’t be the source of comfort anymore. But that doesn’t mean there’s no room for new loves, new connections, and new experiences that paint our lives with vibrant colors.

Perhaps the echoes of “I used to…” can lead seamlessly into an exciting symphony of “I am now discovering…”