Remembering the Past

Many of us probably would like to forget the past. Or at least some of it. On the other hand, there is considerable value in remembering at least some of the past that may be forgotten. But how do we go about this?

There are many ways. Let me suggest a couple you may not have thought about. There is always that unexpected memory of days (years) gone by that pop up unexpectedly. Some are delightful; others not quite so. If you haven't thought of this, why not give it a try?

If you have lived in several places, go back to the first and try to remember where it was, the city or country, how long you lived there, what the house, apartment or whatever (tent?) looked like, and what you did . . . Then move on to the next residence and do the same. You will be rewarded with all kinds of memories long forgotten.

Now, if you lived in one place for all or most of your life, you may need another prompter. Try this. See if you can recall what transportation you used going back as far as you can (trike, bike, boat, auto, mule. Mule? As a kid I rode a mule from one farm to another for my uncle (I was a city kid). It was fun, then boring, then uncomfortable and when we got close to my uncle's farm, ol' Jenny began to pick up speed. That was most unlike the ride I had on the back of a camel in Egypt when the animal took off on a run and never stopped until we arrived at the pyramid. That ride was incredibly smooth!

By now you are saying “this guy is crazy.” Maybe. Maybe not. This can prompt all kinds of memories which can be most rewarding. I tried it with my autos, from the first (1931 Studebaker) purchased for $125 in 1947 followed by a 1937 Nash Lafayette inherited from my father which I paid off when I sold it for $200. My 1956 VW Beetle with a sliding soft roof was my companion for 5 years and 90,000 miles. My, those memories. My young nephew and niece called it the “Danny Car.” In 1970 I bought a VW Camper which took my family of four through Europe.

Follow? Why not give it a try so your past is not totally forgotten. Our memories are invaluable treasures and don't cost a dime.