Another goodbye. I tend to get attached to things, especially when they’ve served me well. This sofa. It was time. Why is it so hard for me to let it go? What does this sofa mean to me?

This worn, taupe sofa was purchased in 2005, after my separation from my husband of 24 years. It was my first major purchase. I remember going to JC Penney, picking it out, opening up a line of credit. Big girl stuff in my 40’s. The sofa represents my independence. My new life. The family room was ready for a facelift. It had a matching chaise given to my daughter who enjoyed it for several years of kids and dogs. It too is gone.

It was the kind of sofa you melt into. It enveloped you. Soft, cuddly. Now worn, sunken in. The best to sleep on, but not so easy to get out of. Letting go of it is letting go of the pain of separation, the memories and the joy of a new life. Letting go of younger me.

I spent many nights on that sofa. Nights when I couldn’t sleep. Nights when my grandson slept over and asked me to stay with him. Many naps at the end of the work day.

The sofa housed dreams and sleepless nights, entertained friends, family and neighbors. Watched movies while babysitting the grandkids. Lots of popcorn enjoyed on that sofa.

Memories and rest. It supported me, held me, coddled me. An old friend, always welcoming, always available. If it was going to a new home, I’d feel better. If I still had a family room, I’d keep this one. It’s just so big and puffy, I have no space for it.

I’m 65 now. It’s lived in three homes with me. I’m at a new place in life, one that doesn’t have kids that hang out in the family room.

It is time for a new sofa. A new era. A new life. I’d wanted a grey one since we moved into the new house two years ago. I’ve replaced it with a sofa with cleaner lines that takes up less space in our smaller home. The new sofa represents my current situation and I’m excited about it.

Letting go. It may seem silly that’s it’s just a sofa. But it’s more than that. A friend, confidant, a life well lived. Farewell my faithful friend. Thank you for the many years of enjoyment and comfort.

Angela DiCicco

theitaliangrandmama.com