Music has a remarkable knack of triggering memories from yesteryear. Transporting us back to a chapter of our lives, which so often differs dramatically to the life we live now.
Recently, I was listening to some vinyl. The tracks were those I would listen to in the late 90’s. And there I was, back in my one-bedroom tenement flat in Greenock on a Saturday evening. The dancing shoes were on and ready to go. The purple velvet shirt was hanging up, ready to proudly slip on. Gelling my hair, music on in the background, waiting for a taxi to hit the town. It was heaven.
Fast forward 25 years and my idea of heaven now is getting a couple of clothes washes complete before I go to work in the morning. And if I manage to fill and switch on the dishwasher also, wow, what a spectacular start to the day.
What is it about the human race that results in us evolve in our thinking, desires and aspirations as we progress through our lifecycle?
It seems to be a gradual process, which comes to us all.
For example, at what point, do men decide that ‘beige’ will be their colour of choice when it comes to clothing? Do they wake up one morning and think ‘I really fancy a new rain jacket, in beige’.
And women, you do not escape this evolution. When does a pink rinse suddenly become the must have fashion? It’s a serious question.
But it doesn’t stop there. If you tapped me on the dance floor in 1998 and suggested a trip to the tip the next day, I would politely share that I think you are steamboats (little bit of Scottish for you there). Now, if someone suggests a tip run, I am like a dog who has heard the word ‘walkies’.
Periodically, my family back in Scotland remind me of the time at Christmas when my Aunt Myra paid a visit with presents. She passed me my gift and in record time, the wrapping was off, only to reveal a pair of slippers.
‘Slippers? Who wants slippers’, I rather rudely exclaimed. I was only about 6.
Now, if someone was to gift me a pair of moccasins, I would be beaming from ear to ear. When does the hatred of slippers, suddenly evolve into deep love?
Another example: cleaning out cupboards. I swear, if I had my time again and the career officer offered me the opportunity to be an apprentice cleaner/arranger, I would shake them by the hand and thank them profusely for giving me the career of a lifetime.
But that wasn’t the case years ago. Why now? What has changed? I am the same chap!
Mind you, I suppose there are some benefits to the mindset change. There is nothing worse than seeing a middle-aged man dressing like he is a mix between John Travolta and Elvis, ready to the hit the town. That is just wrong!
Anyway, time to go. Popping out as I have spotted a lovely, beige cardigan that I simply must have. I think it may go awfully well with my slippers.
