Entry #2 - Circle of Life

Staring down at the small, red, and white striped circle wrapped in plastic film on the palm of my hand that creates a satisfying crinkle as I peel away the thin plastic. The sound is simple, yet it immediately awakens my senses. The excitement builds as I carefully unwrap the candy, taking in the sweet smell that escapes from the wrapper. 

As I hold the tiny candy in my hand, I remember the times before when the very same candy had laid across this very same hand. I recall memories of receiving small amounts of candy along with the check from the waitress at the end of dinner as my family talked around me. Counting how many pieces I can eat before my mom decides it's time to finally head home. The fond feeling of Christmas time, where the red and white circle is the center of decoration in Grandma's home for two months. Reaching over and stealing a handful from Grandma's kitchen bowl that was filled to the brim with the same small plastic-wrapped candy. Dropping one or two of the tiny pieces of sweetness in the hot chocolate my mom made me. This small circle of red and white invokes amazing taste, along with an emotional connection to my memories and childhood. The candy is small and unassuming, yet it carries a sense of importance. 

As I place the candy in my mouth, it immediately begins to dissolve, expressing a burst of sweetness that dances on my tongue. My favorite part is how long I get to enjoy the taste. I can place it on the side of my cheek and let it completely disintegrate and I continue with my day, experiencing the powerful sensation of the small circle for longer periods. The flavor is clean and refreshing, leaving a nice aftertaste that lingers long after the candy is gone. 

As soon as the aftertaste fades, I repeat the process of unwrapping that thin layer of plastic and staring down at yet another red and white-circle staring right back at me. The flavor explodes just as the last, and that refreshing, sweet flavor washes over my tongue once again. If I didn't have more important things to finish in my day, I would sit and experience the feeling of consuming the entire bag, but I would throw a couple in my pocket for later.