And I tell you what, L.J.; you see all these people you haven't seen for twenty years, and there's this split second when you meet somebody you used to know, and you think 'My God, he's changed!,'and then all of a sudden, he hasn't- it's just like the twenty years weren't there, I mean" he rubbed his head vigorously, struggling for meaning--"you see they've got some gray, and some lines, and maybe they aren't just the same as they were, but two minutes past that shock, and you don't see it anymore. They are just the same people they always were, and you have to make yourself stand back a ways to see that they aren't eighteen anymore
The quote captures the profound and often surprising nature of reconnecting with people after many years. The speaker reflects on the initial shock of seeing someone after decades; the physical changes are immediately apparent. Yet, as the initial moment passes, the essence of the person remains unchanged, evoking a sense of familiarity that transcends time and appearances. This highlights the deep-rooted connections we maintain with others, regardless of the passage of years and the inevitable aging process.
The speaker struggles to articulate this feeling, emphasizing how the relationships formed in youth can retain their significance even in maturity. The gray hairs and wrinkles may suggest a transformation, but the core identity and memories shared with these individuals remain intact. This illustrates the enduring nature of human bonds, suggesting that while time alters our physical state, it does not diminish the connections that truly matter. The realization calls for a broader perspective when reminiscing about the past.
