reminder to self

Our memories are labile. They are imperfect, constantly recalled and consolidated with different connotations. They are constantly revised, rewritten, re-memorized to be congruent with our changing perceptions of what's best for us to believe at the present moment.
Our present defines our perceptions of the past, and our hopes for the future.
The evolutionary purpose of memory is to guide our predictions of the future. We remember experiences to plan our blueprints, to guide our decisions about the future.
If you remember being chased by that bear in the woods last weekend, chances are that you aren't going to solo-hiking in those woods this weekend.

Our memories are emotionally charged. We muddle facts with feelings, and truths with beliefs.
It is hard to take a step back from yourself. It's hard to be objective about the way you felt, the way you feel, and the memories that constantly plague you.

Memories are strengthened by recall--the more you reminisce the longer you will remember. But the more you tell yourself to forget, the more you will remember.
So don't try to forget. Try to revise, try to disengage from the memory itself. Untangle yourself from the salience of it all--become more objective.
Recognize your own patterns of thought, accept them for what they are.

Time will heal, but only if you let it.