The IKEA Shelves That Hold Generations of Memories

A Connection to My Past

As I sit before my beloved white shelves, memories flood my mind like a tidal wave crashing. These shelves, a product of IKEA’s Bergshult/Granhult combination, have been with me for over a decade and traversed three Sydney homes. They may be simple furniture, but they are much more to me.

What makes them truly special are the treasures that adorn each shelf.

The top shelf boasts an array of religious figures from the statue box of my parents in Sri Lanka. These statues have been passed down through generations and hold a special place in my heart. I can still remember how they were once placed in the home I grew up in, way above everyone’s height, where I would gaze up at them in awe. These figures were divine to my parents and grandparents. They believed in their God and loved him dearly. Part of my personality is framed from that Catholic origin, of Sri Lankan flavour.

On the second shelf, you will find measuring tapes from the early 20th century, cherished possessions of my two grandfathers. The smaller measuring tape belonged to my grandfather, who died long before I was born when my father was fifteen. The other tape belonged to my other grandfather, who died when I was six. When I touch the two tapes, I am touching my grandfathers, and that emotion takes me back to a bygone and cherished era that has passed and would never come back. Alongside the tapes sit an oil lamp and a vase that belonged to my parents. The oil lamp burned with a wick that thrived on coconut oil for the whole day — spreading an aromatic smell throughout the house I grew up in. But the special item on this shelf is the elephant, made of ebony, the only toy I have left from childhood. It has since lost a leg and its two white tusks. It serves as a reminder of awe and childhood innocence in a tropical land.

Finally, the third shelf holds a bell that once belonged to my father and a jewellery case that belonged to my grandmother. I distinctly remember the tingly sound of the bell when my father pressed it, calling for his assistants to his office. I rejoice when my grandkids press it, enjoying their childhood wonder at that sound. Little do they know they are touching their great-grandfather when they press it.

Each item on the three shelves is a precious link to my past, connecting me to the generations that came before me.

Yes, these shelves are amazing, but they are much more than just a practical piece of furniture. They hold the memories of my family and ancestors and remind me of where I come from. And for that, I will always treasure them.

This corner in my house highlights the significance of family heirlooms and the memories they hold. The shelving is a beautiful tribute to the generations before me.

The culture has significantly changed within two generations, but the stories will remain the same.

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The images belong to the original owners.