Memories can be good and not so good. They all help in defining our future by reminding us of our past. Memories can be painful, especially in times of grief or despondency. Memories can be positive by reminding us of the good times we’ve had. All memories build on what we already know.
Some memories are painfully sad, yet will never be forgotten. One such memory I will never forget is when I held my son Lewis’s hand as he lay dying. His warm hand turning cold in mine. Other memories are beautiful like meeting my grandson Mannie soon after his birth. I remember the joy in the faces of Owen and Carly.
Memories shape our past and deliver us into the future. The trick is to hold on to our memories and at the same time learn to let them go. Memories play a huge part in explaining our behaviour. Who of you can ever forget the death of a loved one without shedding a tear and who of you will laugh with family and friends whilst recounting funny episodes in the past?
Unfortunately whilst in a depressed state I find myself haunted by bad memories and it becomes a struggle to give them up. Dwelling on these memories when I’m unwell only serves to feed the depression. It does nothing to help me move on. I don’t forget the events that cause me grief, I just don’t hang onto them as if my life depended on it.
Memories are a powerful tool to use when recounting your life but they can be detrimental if you only remember the bad ones. In remembering the good with the bad I can balance my life so as I am not dragged under by a sea of grief and worry. Worry will not change anything is a phrase I like to remind myself of when I become so anxious I’m incapable of doing anything.
Do you worry unnecessarily? Do you let your worries dominate your life and paralyse you with fear,?Try acknowledging them and then let them go. This is not to say forget them but it will allow you to move on.
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