Memory Part 2
February 12, 2025
Memory Part 2
Memories are stored and accessed on three levels: the subconscious, the pre-conscious, and the conscious. All three levels are important. Memories held in the subconscious are not in our conscious awareness. These are forgotten memories that are deposited or stored in our subconscious. Also in our subconscious are memories that have been suppressed and repressed. These can be recalled through dreams, hypnosis, guided imagery, and other means. Memories can be stored in the pre-conscious, a special territory between the subconscious and the conscious. Because pre-conscious memories are just below the surface of the conscious level, they can be re-membered more readily. Memories in the conscious level of our mind are the most readily accessible to us.
In the spiritual life, our memories are treasure troves for spiritual growth and understanding. They can heal us and even teach us things we need to learn, long after the memory was actually formed. Many memories are so potent that when we entertain them, we experience the same physical and emotional sensations we did when the event occurred. One way to reinforce our soul is to recount the many memories we have of the people who have supported us from the beginning of our lives. Simply recalling the person’s face, voice, fragrance, and touch infuses us with their love again. And if we have a specific memory of a circumstance with this person, we can play the “movie” of it, and listen to them, see them, and feel them.
Such an experience is not simply a pleasant memory that fades away. Instead, memories that make deep impressions on our soul revitalize and reset us. We feel their love and support once again and these remind us of our intrinsic value, our essence. These are the people and circumstances that created the bones of our soul. They spoke truth into us about our essential value and their actions reinforced it. Such memories are like tunnels that lead to gold mines beneath the surface of our beings.
Spiritual practice: Who do you credit with having loved you unconditionally? Recall their presence and play a movie in your heart of how they loved you into being. You may want to look at a photo of this person.
Self-inquiry: Why are your dearest memories remembered so infrequently?
Dear God,
For making memory movies that remind me of how loved I am, I am truly grateful. Amen
