Time seems to move faster with each passing year. And we tend not to give this much thought until we look back and certain chapters feel like just yesterday and a lifetime ago at the same time. Regularly walking down memory lane helps us to remember where we begin and where we’re still going.
Certainly, big life events and holidays are regular times for looking back. And perhaps it’s just human nature to know the story of where we came from. Whether it’s our own personal story, or that of our family and larger communities, reviewing our history grounds us in a larger story beyond our day-to-day existence. And this tends to stir a deeper appreciation and gratefulness in our souls as we realize all that has taken place to bring us to this point.
Memories might also bring to mind many forgotten dreams and desires. As we remember who we were, we get a chance to reconnect with parts of ourselves that were lost in the busyness of everyday life. To be sure, many of these might be childhood fantasies simply to recall with fondness. But others might provide clarity and help us to get back on course to discovering the meaningful life we want to live.
For instance, this might simply be reconnecting with old friends or being more intentional about pursuing certain opportunities to use our talents, gifts, and abilities.
And, in this way, looking back also helps us to look forward. As we reflect on the various twist and turns of life – what we expected, and what we didn’t plan – we remember what’s important and how to best dedicate our time and attention going forward.
In the end, allow yourself to take a leisurely walk down memory lane. This helps you in reconnecting with your soul and finding your way forward.
Photo by Laura Fuhrman on Unsplash
