In the book "Varina" by Charles Frazier, the author reflects on the bittersweet nature of anniversaries. They evoke a sense of nostalgia that affects different age groups in distinct ways. For the young and hopeful, these occasions symbolize promise and potential, while for the elderly, they often serve as stark reminders of lost dreams and unfulfilled lives.

This duality showcases how time can transform joy into sorrow. As expectations fade, the reality of what once was can cast a shadow over celebrations, turning what should be joyful moments into reflections on disappointment and the passage of time.