tpeterson_lostknowledge_2018

Lost Knowledge

 

As I walk through the door a familiar scent greets me in the doorway. The smell of Pinesol cleaner fills the air and the scent are so intoxicating. I am used to that smell for I am here almost everyday off my life since I started working at this place. Nothing had change and still the same smell of Pinesol. One thing though is missing, the old woman who sit by the window and look outside. She is not there, where is she? She always greets me with a smile even though she won’t say anything. She just smiles and then looks away. Where is she, I seem to have missed her smile. I was just gone for a day.

Hi Ava, you’re back. We miss you. Thank you I said and proceed to ask, “Where is Ms. Coleman?” I was saddened to hear she had passed away the day before. I was very surprise when one of the staff said, “She left this for you, your name is on it”. For me I said, an old shoe box.

My mind was preoccupied with her and this old box. I opened the box as soon as I get home and was very surprised by its content. Old pictures and lots and lots of clipping. Her entire life in an old box and she shared it with me. I peruse through all the pictures and clippings and was astonished to find out that this old fragile woman was an accomplished scientist with numerous awards and publications. She dedicated her life in pursue of knowledge, a knowledge that she has nobody to share with. No one will know her life story, her struggle and her accomplishment. It will be forever Lost Knowledge.

Done