Memory: A Living Story, Not a Perfect Record

We like to think of memory as a flawless recording of the past, but in reality, it is a fluid, ever-changing process shaped by emotion, meaning, and survival instincts. Each time we recall an event, we reconstruct it—sometimes altering details, filling in gaps, or even creating false memories. Trauma can disrupt this process, leaving memories fragmented, intrusive, or difficult to integrate, contributing to PTSD. Yet, memory is not meant to trap us in the past—it exists to guide our future, helping us learn, grow, and navigate life with greater awareness. By understanding memory’s mutability, we can reshape our narratives, turning even painful experiences into sources of wisdom and resilience.