Memories

My Memory

"Are you sure?"

For one second I allow myself to hesitate and doubt my decision. When I was born, no one made this sacrifice for me. Why should I sacrifice something so precious to someone I don't even know, if no one was willing to do that to me?

"Yes, I am sure. Take it. I'm ready."

One more look, then the Memory Collector in front of me raised their hand to touch my forehead gently, their fingers lingering there for a few seconds and then lowering them again.

I immediately felt the sensation of something missing. Full of doubt I looked into their eyes.

"What did I choose?"

"I am not allowed to tell you. You know that."

I felt sick. This wasn't right. I could feel how wrong it was to just give a piece of yourself, a piece of your soul to someone else. I've always been told that giving away a memory caused an unpleasant sensation the first few weeks, but no one ever mentioned that it would actually cause pain.

"It's just... I just want to know if I choose a good one." I dared to look in their eyes one more time. "Don't tell me what it was about, just tell me I'm not going to cause harm to a child."

They hesitated. I don't know if it was because they were thinking about going against protocoll and actually telling me or because the answer to my question was a no.

"I can't tell you. But I know that you are a gentle soul. I hope you will receive all the kindness you show to others."

They vanished and with them went the memorie i had picked to give to a newborn. I knew I'd never be able to remember it again, still I hoped it was the most precious one I had owned. I'd never want anyone to start their life the way I had to start mine.