I met an old university friend for a morning coffee today. The sun shone brightly outside, and the wind breezed, signalling spring. The police horses ducked their heads into the water fountain, one horse playing merrily, splashing its hoof inside. At the same time, tourists gathered around, watching from the sideline. 

Inside, we chatted about our friends, the good old days, and the perilous time we were in while sipping an overpriced coffee under the French banner. The man sitting to my right looked at me from the sideline. I wished I knew what he was thinking. My friend and I kept on chatting despite the glaring stare. Inside, we both laughed, hoping that man knew what we were talking about. We shared plenty of moments of carefreeness, and in those moments, we became our younger versions again.

I guess that is what friends are for. Mirrors of who we once were, bouncing balls of youth, possibilities, and the unknown. Friends remind us that while time may continue, parts of us may still be present in the past. I felt freedom as we walked outside the door and took a picture together.

I hope my friend felt the same way.