When I am depressed remembering is a key element in finding my hope again. I delight in remembering. It brings me great joy to remember all the times God has been faithful, all the times I have been able to be with the people I love, even all the crazy things I have done with others. It renews my energy and desire to do my part in making those things happen again. Remembering often causes me to love people more because I think about moments we have shared. It offers respite from all the circumstances that surround me. It gives me a chance to be in a space where I can concentrate on all the good that has happened or is a part of my life. I very rarely bother to take time and energy to remember negative events in my life. Those zap me of all things good. Instead, I remember all the times when I felt safe, loved, and content. Just focusing on these moments, these people, these activities reminds me of what is important.
People love traditions and I think this is clearly because traditions bring up good memories. Almost everyone I know has a powerful memory of Christmas. A memory that makes them feel all warm and fuzzy. A memory that reminds them of an event, or a place, or a smell that was enjoyable. The Bible tells us in Philippians, “Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” Phil. 4:8 Remembering those moments that were lovely and excellent seems like a good place to start.
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