I printed off a few more images to add to Dhiren`s Nostalgia Book of goods he used to sell. Some love beads, a box of assorted jewellery, horse brasses, brass candlesticks and some smart `day dresses`.
At the home, I inserted them into his file, telling him about each picture as I did so.
And then we went through the book.
Again, he showed signs of recognition and connection. His eyes lit up and he smiled as I showed him the picture and told him the story of each market he attended.
When we were looking at the fruit and vegetable stall I reminded him how every Friday and Saturday he came home with a big box of fruit and vegetables for the family and how he always bought the best quality so they would last the week. He chuckled with pleasure at the memory, not just the first time but again and again.
When we came to pictures of the goods he sold, I made each page into a story, much in the same way I told stories to special needs children in my work. My memory of his working life triggered his memory and the stories added a little bit of icing to the cake.
We went through the book three times and each time the pleasure was as good as the last. I thought three times was enough for one day and put the book away.
Dhiren sat in his chair with a smile which didn`t fade. I asked him what he was thinking about, he answered , `The markets. The Good Old Days.`
The feelings stayed with him for the rest of my visit. An Antiques Auction show was on the television. He connected with the programme as an extension of the book. He bought and sold, those on the television were buying and selling.
The whole episode was full of pleasure and my heart was light on my journey home. I still feel the pleasure, although I know Dhiren will be sleeping and unaware .
By pure chance, it was the best visit ever.
