“Memories have a way of defining not only who you were, but who you are and who you will become.”

A thought by Erwin Raphael McManus (2003-09-04) from his book, Uprising: A Revolution of the Soul (Kindle Location 1815). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.

And to some extent, memories are a choice. He also says, “I remembered a life filled with pain and disappointment, not because that was all I experienced, but because it was all I had brought with me.”

So what memories are you holding on to, what are you repeating over and over? What memories do you celebrate? That tells me what kind of life you are living. If all you remember are your failures, your pains, your rejections then you are living a life of deep hurt of deep despair, and probably a life with a lot of anger and no hope. Why do you do that when you also have good memories that could bring you joy?

Now some would say, “I am a realist” but remembering the good things is also being a realist. For some I’m afraid they like the attention that they get when they show how they are a victim. That is not healthy. That is not GOD’s way.

If you are having trouble with your memories, with what negative dates you highlight then why don’t you take some refocus time. Yes, I remember the day that we found out that Margaret had cancer but I don’t remember what date it was. My memory of that day is filled with gratitude for GOD bringing her through all of that and the fact that she is cancer free today. The day I celebrate is November 9, 1974, the day she became my wife. I also don’t remember the dates of some of our big fights which we have had. I try to live by 1 Corinthians 13:5b (NLT), “Love…keeps no record of being wronged.”

What memories are defining you? There are some memories you just need to forgive. Let the pain of that rejection go through forgiveness. Live with gratitude that GOD brought you through that horrible painful time and that HE hasn’t rejected you. That HE still loves you and that HE is out ahead of you preparing a way for you. You are not alone and HE has other relationship around you that love you. It is all in your perspective, in your focus.

Erwin went on to say, “I started to re-remember. There were great memories in my past, but I had to blow the dust off them. I journeyed back and found some wonderful places and experiences. You will be amazed how many wonderful memories are trapped behind the avalanche of the few negative ones. The painful memories were no less real but no longer dominant.”

So what great memories do you need to blow off the dust?

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