“I don’t like dark chocolate.” I remember speaking that same phrase every time you offered me a piece. And then you’d reply with something along these lines: “But its better for you than milk chocolate. And white chocolate.” Which I admit, is true. But it was such a deceitful substance, luring you in with its harmless appearance. And then you take a bite, only to realize its not that same sugary treat you’ve become so accustomed to.
You used to buy it all the time, as the pair of us would saunter through town together gleefully, you always yanking me aside to visit the candy store.
“Do you want a piece?” You always offered.
“I don’t like dark chocolate.” And that same response I gave every time.
But no matter how many times I rejected, you kindly offered me a piece of your treasure each time the wooden door to the candy store closed behind your figure, aglow with satisfaction.
The months of summer passed so quickly, but we’d made our fair share of trips to the candy shop. You informed me you may be moing away soon, but I thought little of it.
I recall that frigid winter day, as I stood outside the train you boarded. We said our good- byes, and we shared a stream of tears. You lowered your hand to me, clasped with a parting gift. When you released your gentle grip, I was left with a lone piece of dark chocolate.
Before my signature phrase could be spoken the train door shut, the locomotive pulling off and leaving me in solitude. I peered down at my palm, which held the tiny present.
Hesitantly, I unwrapped the rich brown square, allowing some of the chocolate to melt in my hand before slowly placing it in my mouth. That bitter hint made me cringe. But I’d never taken a chance prior to this to realize just how smooth and silky dark chocolate was, or to notice the sweet undertone it carried. Before I knew it, the treat was gone, leaving only the bittersweet aftertaste.
And at this point, I related dark chocolate to life itself. Bitter, and yet sweet at the same time. Gone as quick as it is enjoyed.
Ever since, I have eaten my share of dark chocolate, trying to enjoy both the sweet and the bitter. And I have lived my life the same way.
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