The Transformation of a Single Memory

The Transformation of a Single Memory.

Memories are an important part of everyday life for every species on Earth. An elephant will remember where the last water hole was. A bird will return to the same bird feeder. It is a crucial part of everyday life. We know coffee will burn if drank too quickly because we have been burnt before. We know we will get sunburned if we stay outside too long. Memories are crucial to everyday life and survival. But what about memories of joyful times and special occasions? They serve not only the purpose of remembrance but also reflection and self growth.

The funny thing about memories is they change every time we revit them, along with our perspective.  I will use the example of my eighth birthday. Just before my ninth birth I reflected on the previous year. As an almost 9 year old I pictured the modest decorations my mother carefully hung. I recalled anticipating the hustle and bustle of the guest soon to come. Excitement was bubbling inside of me. No one showed.
My good hearted mother amped up the enthusiasm despite the empty house. I did the same, never wanting her to see the disappointment reach my face. I opened each present from my mother and blew out the candles in celebration with her alone.

Looking back at 9 years old all I could see was the abandonment and betrayal of my friends. Needless to say, I opted out of a 9th birthday party. All the other perspectives were beyond my reach at the moment. As an adult, I can revisit that memory and see the heartbreak in my mother’s eyes as she makes the best of an unfortunate situation.

Thousands upon thousands of memories I have indulged in and each time I add yet another level of realism. I can look back and see yet another degree of clarity and understanding. I noticed things that went unnoticed before. I reflect based upon my current experiences and relativity. Sometimes your brain needs to tuck it away for a while until you mature enough to understand the entirety. Sometimes your brain just isn’t able to wrap your head around the whole situation. Other times the filter of innocent eyes saves a lot of heartache.


Will this cycle ever end, I often wonder. Or will I forever be able to look back and realize something I couldn’t before. Like smoke in the air, visible but not tangibles. Or like re-reading a book. The story deepens and the plot thickens with each new pass. I can only wonder what my next revelation will be or what new perspective will come to light but I pray I can use it to reflect and grow. How have your memories transformed you?