2007-07-22 Things I Collect (Part 2)

Sugar packs. It all started in Italy in 1994, I think. My parents and I were sitting in a sidewalk cafe and I suddenly realized that the sugar packs they serve with the coffee didn't look like those back at home. I talked my parents into not using them all, so that I could take one home. Over the years I've collected three shoe boxes worth of sugar, every single pack unique. Some are from as far away as Saudi Arabia or Egypt, some are from the cafe around the corner. One is from the hospital where my dad's bypass operation took place, one is from the pub where we celebrated my graduation. Most of them were gifts from people who came back from a journey.
I don't even remember where most of them came from or who gave them to me. But in a way it makes the world a better place to think that no matter where you go, people will probably tear open a small paper bag and pour its content into their coffee to make it sweeter. The shape and imprint might differ, but basically, it's all the same. I find that comforting.