String Theory

We have all heard of the String Theory in physics. Well, I have a string theory, too: The String Theory of Memories. 

From the moment we are born, I believe that our brains begin to store memories. These images form the framework in which we function. How we choose to string these memories together and interpret them with our unique meaning defines us and, consequently, the world around us.   At any point in time, we can change the meaning and, consequently, change our outlook and ourselves.   Think of the power within our grasp!

If I let myself be quiet and relax, images will flow in and out of my mind's eye. At first blush, these images may appear to be random.  However, if we meditate on them, their randomness disappears and an order becomes apparent.  What we find at the foundation of these memories is a feeling. It is this feeling that reveals the connection between the images. And, it is this feeling connection that is the string that not only threads one image to another, but it is the string that connects one image cluster to another image cluster. 

Think of someone you like. Right away, a smile comes to your face and images of them flood your mind. Now, you and I know they do not do everything you like. Although there are plenty of memories that you could string together that would focus on the unpleasant memories, somewhere along the line you made a decision, albeit an unconscious one, to interpret their actions as positive. 

Now, do the opposite. Think of someone you do not like.  Almost immediately, you frown. Images that flood your mind have been interpreted as negative by you. Truly, they have done some unpleasant or unkind things, but they have also acted in positive ways, too. 

Of course, we do not live in a world where everything can be simplified and designated to a "like cluster" or a "do not like cluster." There are more complex image clusters that form the framework in which we function. Not only do we carry image clusters of people we like or do not like, we string memories together that define our life. Do we tell ourselves that we have a good life or a bad life?  Do we enumerate all the terrible things that have happened to us?  Or, do we focus on all the good experiences?

Even as I now live a life of disabilities and frustrations, I have a good life. And, my memories of you make it so. 

Rejoice

Ah, Spring.  Finally, the trees show the promise of tomorrow. Slowly, after the slumber beneath their white blanket, the gray trunk's sap starts to flow more quickly as it sends the message, "Wake up.  It is time!"  Reaching toward the sky, the branches sing songs of joy.  Hope is alive. 

As I look over the fields of sienna brown or alizarin crimson, I notice a hue of greens. Just barely there, the buds are getting ready to burst forth with the sap green of new growth. The skirmish between the will to thrive will overtake the need to keep safe against the harsh elements. For Winter has lost another battle and will make a full retreat once again. 

The azure blue sky a perfect backdrop to the life playing out at its feet.

Rejoice!  Again, I say, "Rejoice!"