Exhuming Bad Memories
Some Are Better Left in the Grave of History
When the page is turned
And the past is no more
Than a chapter once read
Of events that once were;
Memory is not spurned
And fact does not become lore
Nor does its being become dead
But is something we've learned.
Unearthing the past
And breathing it into new life
May bring on regret
For choices lamented;
Tomorrow approaches quite fast
And cuts like a sharp knife
That we'll soon not forget
Though it too will soon be cemented.
Letting sleeping dogs lie
Is easier said than it is done
As the voices of yesteryear
Continue to whisper and cajole;
At one time a laugh and at another a cry
Tomorrow blooms with a rising sun
That lights to fore and not the rear
To stay focused in front is a goal.
It is not simply denial
To get unstuck from the past
And to lay it to rest in its place;
Once the page of the past
Is fully turned,
There is room for today
In its place.
Published by David A. Reinstein, LCSW - Featured Contributor in Technology
Clinical Social Worker, psychotherapist, born in Boston and a relatively unscathed survivor of the 60 s. Fan of technology, guitars, creating music and poetry. Mental wellness coach, staff trainer and parent... View profile
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25 Comments
Post a CommentWhile I will always remember the kind deeds, I try to forgive those who give me hurtful memories. But to forget is tough as the replay is mostly not intentional! But why replay such memories, thereby repeatedly empowering the perpetrators? Thanks, David, for a piece that everyone can connect with - siva
Well done. Thanks.
Ah! And how often we reread the same chapter or passage. Would it not be easier if we could simply donate some of these dusty volumes to a thrift store? Great piece. Thank you.
My daddy always said, "Let sleeping dogs lie."
A very original and artistically written poem. Thanks!
well written - thank you
A lovely comment on the turning of the pages in our lives. Thank you!
Well said.
Good words.
To stay in the present, we have to let go of the past! So well said, David!