Creating good memories
By Charles Christian
In the Bible, especially the Old Testament, it is common for special events to be commemorated by a marker of some kind. Usually, these markers are called “altars.” Altars are places that mark a sacred space or event, so that future generations can gather to remember, to celebrate and to pray.
That tradition extends to this very day. Special markers and memorials dot the landscape of big cities, small towns and even roadsides. Some of the memories evoked are sad. Others are cause for celebration. Either way, both ancient and modern markers show us the importance of remembering.
What sparks your memory?
Visual aids like memorials are helpful. Also, photos, documents and even particular smells (like baking bread that reminds you of your grandma’s kitchen, perhaps) evoke strong memories of important people, places and events in our own lives.
The late American poet Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
This rings true for many of us. We often think about what we felt when we were near someone who impacted our lives. If the person helped us to feel safe and important, our memory of them is likely positive. If the person made us feel unimportant or belittled, our memory is most often negative.
What will people remember about us?
If we can give a little encouragement, a smile or even a shoulder to lean on when they need it, the memory we create can leave a positive and lasting impact. Sadly, the opposite is also true: Our coldness or mean-spirited behavior can cast a shadow over the memory we create.
The Bible reminds us to “remember our creator in the days of youth, before the days of trouble come …” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). By keeping the memory of God’s love and faithfulness to us at the forefront of our lives, we can be part of creating good memories for those we encounter throughout our day.
Now, go and make some good memories for yourself and for those God leads along your path today.
