Over the last few days, I have had numerous discussions with various colleagues about memory and why it cannot transform itself. There are some vague parallels between our memories and how a computer works. A lot of files are stored on your computer, but you have to open one to view it. Then, if authorized, you might make changes in the original file. Likewise, memories hold center stage when they are activated. Someone mentions a trip to Tahiti and raptures on about the water, the dancers, the flowers, and the warmth of the local people. You conjure up memories that have elements in common with those of your friend. The subject changes, the memory vanishes from active consciousness and will not come up again unless there is another comparable catalyst.
This example is a benign type of social exchange that can occur many times a day if you are gregarious or less frequently, perhaps, if you are less interactive with others. When a memory is traumatic, it can be dormant for so long that one “forgets” the event occurred. Maybe one thinks the issues surrounding the event are completely resolved so that particular memory vault is empty, but this is not the case. One can say that the memory was tucked away but definitely not forgotten.
One does not know what will cause a memory to surface. Maybe it is a scene in a film, perhaps something in the news, or often something involving a family member or friend. As I have stated in other posts, memories of events that took place in past lives are in the vaults of the presently incarnate person, and very often, the same feelings, fears, expectations, and traumas are expected to recur. When the feelings stir, it is the perfect time for serious therapy; and, since memory cannot transform itself, one actually does need a therapist.
I am not going repeat some of the examples used in previous posts. My goal today is to tie this idea into the current world geopolitical scene and consider deeply the ramifications of the violence, fear, injuries, and insecurity that are pervasive, not only in war zones but wherever there is a challenge to survival whether due to poverty, famine, illness, or deprivation of any type.
Perhaps because of the passion for violence, many cults have dramatized bravery, heroism on the battlefield, and even promised rewards in the afterlife. How will the emotional self process the wounds, losses of lives, sacrifices, and dare I add, the folly of following orders.
When people asked me about the recent eclipses, I compared this eclipse to the Gulf of the Tonkin and then the Flower Children Movement because once we see there is no real glory in killing fellow human beings, there is nothing more to say. I was in Vietnam from late 1966 to mid-1968. I sometimes thought, “How will they ever make a movie about this?” There were wounded children, orphans, parents in tears, and people risking their lives for nothing, for absolutely nothing.
These wounds are deep, and what I am saying today is that they are more or less permanent until something happens to transform the way the experience was recorded at the time. Emotional labels are affixed to the events, and how they are viewed is very personal and persuasive.
For argument’s sake, let’s say half the world thinks the “good guys” ought to rise to the occasion and finish off the “bad guys”. The rest of the world wants the leaders to come to the senses and end the insanity. You think the widows and orphans are going to forgive those who killed husbands and fathers? I will argue, not in this lifetime, not in the next, and not until a point comes when one is willing to dig in the unconscious and do really serious therapy.
What happens in therapy? A skilled therapist guides the subject through memories until a point comes when healing occurs. I use a combination of astrology and music to facilitate the transformation. Others have other techniques. There is no one therapy that better or worse, but the therapist must be skilled and avoid becoming tangled up in the drama.
I still want to keep this focused as much as possible on the current world situation because it is a tinderbox with the potential for very serious consequences.
For peace to prevail, everyone must resolve to find non-violent solutions for all issues. This can involve conferring with our most spiritually inspired sages, the most senior statesmen, the most idealistic independent thinkers and visionaries, and those with the most generous and humanitarian goals for the future. There is no room for ambition. To change the trajectory from might makes right to peace will be the beginning of a new era in which creativity can be expressed without hindrances.
In the meantime, I want to reiterate that every injustice perpetrated on others will probably take many lifetimes to rebalance so think about whether revenge and violence are worth it.
Copyright by Dr. Ingrid Naiman 2024 || All Rights Reserved
For permission to quote, please contact the author. Sharing via e-mail and posting links are welcome so long as the author and source are properly cited. Reprinting is strictly prohibited.
Note: Recovery from a series of serious website and computer issues took much longer than anticipated. MoldHerbs.com, ToxicTeeth.com, SeventhRayPress.com, and InvisibleEpidemics.com are all working. Bioethika International is now the main site with a complete list of available herbs. Your patience and understanding are much appreciated as is your loyalty and referral of new subscribers. Thank you so much!
Image Credits:
Yin and Yang: Filmfoto | Dreamstime.com
Memories are indeed mysterious. It’s interesting to think about them, how they slumber, and how they quicken and rouse.
Wise words thank you