Memories to Keep, Memories to Toss

Image from www.layoutsparks.com/1/124631/memories-1-road-drive.html

Isn’t the memory-keeping file-cabinet within our minds amazing?  We store so many facts, figures, pictures, feelings, emotions, and more.  What types of memories do you keep?

Like most people, I have fond memories, funny memories, and sad memories.  At this moment in time, I am struggling with overcoming a hurtful memory.  Isn’t it strange how we allow a mere memory, an event or relationship from the past, control how we feel today?  It’s silly if you think about it.  What is really bothering me is that the majority of my struggle is not so much with the memory itself, but the fact that I am allowing this memory to hold such power over me.  I feel I have gotten to a point in my life where I am able to release negativity, therefore, denying it of its ability to affect me.  And that is why this memory haunts me so, because I can’t seem to shake its affect on me.  Logically, I know that events from the past have no power over my life TODAY, so why does this memory keep re-surfacing in my mind, and dredging up emotion?  Clearly, this is just another challenge, another lesson to learn.  Perhaps because I have been doing well with releasing the old, I am now given a tougher one than usual to test my strength.  It certainly is challenging, but I will succeed in releasing it; there is no doubt.

The up side it that we can choose what we keep in that dusty old file-cabinet of memories, just as we can chose our thoughts and our life’s direction.  It is true that releasing old thoughts and memories that no longer serve us is a wonderful and healthy thing to do.  It may not be easy, but it is possible.  Also, equally important is making sure to keep the fun, happy, and loving memories near and dear to your heart. 

My absolute favorite memories are the ones that make you laugh out loud when you recollect them.  Yes, of course I love re-hashing a funny story from the past with friends, but I am talking about the ones that make you laugh out loud while you are merely sitting by yourself, thinking about it.  Those are my favorite.  If you can laugh out loud while sitting all by yourself, you surely will hoot and holler with laughter when you recall the story with a friend.  These memories are always good counter-actors to the negative ones.  If you’re in a funk, think of one of these funny memories, there is no doubt your mood will elevate.

Whether you keep memories that make you laugh or make you cry, always remember that it is the Now that is most important.  It is what you say and do right now that creates who you are today.  It is the thoughts you choose today, the memories you chose to reflect upon today.  The hopes and dreams you have for the future.  No memory or event from the past has the power to control who you are today.  As with anything in life, balance is key.  True balance is being able to look at the past with fondness, look towards the future with hope, and feel gratitude for being exactly where you are today.  Enjoy today!