Memories

One of the things that I notice about memories is the emotion that can be attached to them. I will be talking to someone and it will open up a window on a memory that expands into a scenario, complete with emotion.

This trip was exhausting, that party was stressful, the holidays before mom died were sad.

As I recall years passed, I am reminded that this is my perspective and may not be true for others.

Someone else on the trip may have been in awe of the scenery and totally unaware of the people. That party could have been the best day in someone else’s life. And the holidays, well, are different for everyone.

This year will certainly be different for everyone. Zoom get togethers, small gatherings with only your family and not being able to go to grandma’s house are going to create memories. There may be that funny story about your open calendar and too much time on your hands that finally pushed you to clean the closets and find all the single socks! Or maybe you found a new passion in cooking or helping others.

Perspective is an amazing tool to learning awareness.

We are all different. Everyone has memories that can last a life time. The emotions that come attached are in the present. You might have had those feelings back then, but you are feeling them now. Be aware of your feelings and listen to others’ memories too. Notice what comes up. What is one thing you remember that won’t get you stuck in the perspective of a negative emotion? What can you share that feels good?

Don’t ignore your feelings, but maybe the holidays aren’t the best time to share.

You get to choose.