Memories aren’t defined by their length or duration but by their intensity and the impact they have on our lives. They linger when they’re deeply positive or negative, something that shapes us profoundly.

For these children, I had become such a memory.

As the conversation extended and our time in the lobby grew, we moved to the dining hall. There were other children and adults scattered around, but the room was spacious enough that we didn’t disturb anyone by settling in a corner. Some of them glanced our way curiously, but seeing who we were, they chose not to intrude. …