The Trouble with Memory

It’s natural to think a note on memory is about improving one’s memory, say tips or advice. All agree that having a poor memory is undesirable. But today we consider the opposite. This note is about those men and women gifted with excellent memory, or even beyond excellent.

Courtrooms are transfixed by memory-gifted attorneys citing case after case in support of their clients. Students are mesmerized by faculty that communicate like walking encyclopedias of information with complete ease. World leaders invite memory-rich consultants to give historical aspects to current problems. Yet, the at-home housewife can demolish her husband in a dispute over the point of contention by recalling in minute detail what happened last time or recalling past sins and errors. The boss who remembers every mistake of every employee has an uncomfortable staff. As well, adults who vividly remember only childhood punishments may have problems with authority.

So, is perfect memory a blessing? Consider. They forget little, recalling instantly every transgression, insult, and even gesture against them. Such perfect recall brings back as well the emotions of the time with their original intensity. For them, every years’ past event is but yesterday. In consequence, many cannot forgive or forget, essential parts of human harmony. Memories cumulate, bringing with them an ever heavier burden, requiring at times a complete break toward a new life.

Nonetheless, great memories are celebrated everywhere, and rewards can be manifest. Many can manage their gift. Others bear a lifetime of limitless, unwanted recall, a curse only to be released deep into old age or beyond.

Offering mixed verdicts, religions often tell us to forgive, while others command settling scores. Some suggest both. Indirectly, religions recognize the memory gift, as a singular bane and beauty of the mind.

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