The Value of Scents
Scents are somewhat like old tunes they
remind us of certain times and events. In most cases they
remind us of pleasant occasions. We shy away from
unpleasant smells and odors which are usually associated
with unpleasant things. Often the scents by themselves are
neither favorable nor repulsive. It’s our association with
them that we either like or dislike.
As a boy, I liked the smells of new cut grass early in the
morning when the dew was still heavy; smoke from burnt
leaves in the fall; fresh plowed soil prepared for
planting; hot perked coffee ready for breakfast; burning
hickory wood in an open fireplace; and cooking aromas as
Mother prepared Sunday dinner.
As a high school student I remember the smell of old paper
and books in the library; the musty odor of the gym
dressing room; the lunchroom fragrance at about 10:00 in
the morning; the aroma of Vitalis hair tonic when I still
combed my hair.
One of my favorite fragrances is Blue Grass perfume. My
girlfriend in college always wore Blue Grass perfume. I
remember stealing one of her handkerchiefs and keeping it
in my room just for its delightful odor. After graduation I
married her. Fifty-one years later she seldom uses any
perfume, but I can still remember that delightful scent
that reminds me of the wonderful beginning of our lives
together.