A MULTICULTURAL JOURNEY THROUGH STAMPS
Growing up, I barely remember my grandfather, but his passions left a lasting legacy. He was a collector, a reader, a poet, and a cook. While I cherish these inherited passions, today I want to focus on one in particular: philately.
As a child, I would sneak peeks at my grandfather’s cherished stamp collection, which my uncle preserved after his passing. Those moments of wonder sparked a passion in me, and I soon started my own collection. Each stamp became a portal to different countries, cultures, and historical events.
I began my journey with stamps from the USSR and Europe. The vibrant stamps from France, Italy, Switzerland (Helvetica), Hungary, Austria, Bulgaria, Romania, Greece, Turkey, and the UK opened my eyes to a rich tapestry of European history and culture. Each stamp told a unique story, from famous landmarks to significant events.
As my collection grew, I ventured into Africa, exploring stamps from Guinea-Bissau and Zaire during the colonial era. These stamps offered glimpses into a complex and transformative period in African history.
My curiosity then took me to Asia, where I discovered the intricate and beautiful stamps of Japan, China, India, Mongolia, Afghanistan during its golden era, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and more. Each stamp was a piece of art, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and historical milestones of these nations.
North and South America also added to my collection’s diversity. From the vibrant stamps of Ecuador, Canada, Cuba, and the USA, I explored the varied landscapes and histories of the Americas. I often focused on specific themes such as stamps featuring flags, cars, dogs, wild animals, and flowers. Each category added a new dimension to my collection.
One of the most rewarding aspects of philately is the joy of learning. Every time I add a stamp to my collection, I feel a surge of happiness and a deepened sense of knowledge. It’s even more fulfilling when people from the countries I collect stamps for share insights about the meanings and occasions behind these stamps. What started as a hobby transformed into a rich, multicultural journey.
For instance, my collection includes a beautiful stamp from Japan depicting the Cherry Blossom Festival, a symbol of renewal and the fleeting nature of life. Another treasured piece is a stamp from Italy commemorating Leonardo da Vinci’s contributions to art and science. Each stamp is not just a piece of paper but a story, a lesson, and a connection to the world.
Philately has enriched my life in countless ways, offering a window into the diverse and intricate tapestry of human history and culture. It’s a hobby that continually brings joy, knowledge, and a sense of global connection. Through my grandfather’s legacy, I’ve discovered a passion that bridges generations and brings the world a little closer with each new addition to my collection.