Childhood Memory

Every person would wish to only remember happy memories because they are the positive ones. Ironically, sometimes looking back at the happy times makes a person feel sad, especially if returning to that moment is impossible. As a natural progress in life, we need to learn to accept the fact that some things can never be the same as before. There are certain childhood memories that I can never forget in my life. However, the most important memory I have is with my step grandpa, my dad’s step dad, in Armenia. He was a man that deserved this world’s honor and respect because of his humble and simple personality. As a doctor and creative author, he had a philosophical and inspiring side to him that I will never forget. I visited my homeland three times, and my third time was the last time I saw him because he passed away shortly after I came back to Los Angeles. He loved me just like he loved his biological grandchildren. The third time I visited Armenia was when he changed my life. When I was at his house, something had happened and I was extremely angry and raged. As I prepared to leave the house because I did not want to stay there another second, he called me in. We went in the larger living room of the house, and he asked me to sit down around the table, where there was a chessboard, with all its pieces neatly lined up at its places. After telling him that I do not know how to play, he said that it does not matter at this point. We started to play and I made my unsuccessful moves, which he corrected the entire time. I was still confused at why he was making me play if I did not even have the slightest clue on how to play. After my confused questions, he explained that chess is a battle, just like life. He told me that one must be careful at what move he or she makes in life because it can either hurt or benefit them, just like moves in chess. After this moment, I was careful to not make any mistake that I will regret later on. It has been about five years since that day, and I have not forgotten one life lesson he has taught me. I am truly thankful that this man was part of my life. Unfortunately, he is not here with me today, but his spirit will always stay with me forever.