If there were a walking, living version of Cliff Notes it would be my Dad. Or maybe this is better example for the Gen Z-ers, if Wikipedia were an actual person, it would be my Dad.
My Dad knew something (and often a whole lotta something) about everything. And I'm not exaggerating. Both his parents were doctors, He went to college when he was 15. Education, and knowledge were highly valued in his home.
When I spent time with him outdoors I had to listen to him identify every plant, rock, star, or insect. If we were indoors topics might range from music, art, literature, history or even politics. The time frame could be anywhere from past to present. As I grew older I quickly learned to ask him for the Cliff Notes version, and I'm talking about the summary at the front of the booklet. Out of necessity I became preemptive.
"Dad, I have to ask you something, and I need the 10-15 minute version."
When he passed away (very quickly to cancer) i planted these fragrant bushes in front of our house to remind me of our walks when I was a child. Me, just wanting the soft serve at the end of our walk, and him pointing out all the constellations, and telling their stories. I remember nodding an affirmation as he spoke when truthfully my mind was just fixated on that future vanilla creaminess.
The hedge is so full and healthy now after 23 years, and so unbelievably fragrant. I love to stop and smell it, but honestly I can smell it right when I open our front door. I was never sure when I planted it whether it was Star Jasmine, or honeysuckle.
I know who would know.
