The Things You Remember · 3 May 2025
It is funny the things you remember about people. I tend to remember what they said. And often, I write those memories so that I never forget them.
I was doing the crossword puzzle on the day of this writing and there were two words that made me laugh. ROTUND and DAD. (They are in capital letter because I solve crossword puzzles in all caps.) I actually laughed when I wrote the word ROTUND in the puzzle. Then, one of the next answers happened to be DAD. That amused me even more. After all, one of my favorite sayings by one of my favorite people was brought to mind by two answers in the crossword puzzle. So much entertainment in nearly the same instant.
I laughed because my dad used to say, “He’s not fat, he’s rotund.” Or maybe it was, “I’m not fat, I’m rotund.” Not that he was that fat. Certainly not rotund. Perhaps a bit taken by hyperbole. But the words in the puzzle made me laugh at the memory. It brought good thoughts of my dad.
Next, of course, I had to write about the memory (and what brought it about). And I had to add a few thoughts.
I tend to think that our memories of people help to keep them alive in our hearts. Which is why I write them. I want to keep the memories fresh and alive even after the people are not with us. Writing my memories is like having the relationships right there with me whenever I want. I can read my memories when the images and words get fuzzy.
But I actually do not worry about completely losing those memories or ever losing those people. After all, I know that I will see Mom and Dad again. And even if somebody says that I cannot be totally sure, I am 99.99% sure. Yes, I have doubts now and again, but I am almost completely certain (remember the percent) that I will see them again when I go to meet my Maker. Which is why I need not worry that their memories will fade with time. Besides, like I said, I tend to write down memories.
At any rate.
I truly enjoy writing my memories. I love to remember those who have gone before. I love to remember the times that we shared. The meals. The adventures. The jokes. The stories. And, of course, I love to remember the things that they said. The silly or profound words are the ones I remember most. Which is natural. After all, strong emotions tend to make memories stick.
Which is why I remember my dad saying over and over again, “I’m not fat, I’m rotund.” It was always funny. Even though being overweight was not and is not a funny topic. Still, the saying sticks in my mind. So much so that I laugh when I think of the word ROTUND. I laugh because it was one of my dad’s favorite words. And I laugh because it is one of those funny things I remember.
© 2025 Michael T. Miyoshi
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