The upside to forgetfulness

Sometimes I get frustrated when I forget things. I walk into a room fully intending to do something and then can't remember what it was I went in there to do. Was I always like this? I don't think so. And just when I think it's a matter of aging, I hear someone far younger say they do the same thing. So is it a matter of stimulatory overload these days? I don't know. I just know it happens.

But here's a comforting thought I read recently: "I know I'm sometimes forgetful. But some of life is just as well forgotten anyway. And I eventually remember the important things."

I don't know about you, but that does make me feel better. It's true. Some of life is just as well forgotten anyway. Hurts and resentments that I really should have let go a long time ago. Bad memories. Things I did or didn't do that can still cause regret—or even shame. Really, now, is that helpful to continue carrying?

If carrying something around is helpful and still contains some life lessons, OK, then maybe we're not ready to forget just yet. Otherwise, perhaps forgetting is the wisest thing to do.

So, you see, forgetting isn't all bad!