Generally speaking, humans have a tendency of taking things for granted if they are at our disposal day in and day out. Some of these things are more important to others. What if one of these things was taken away? What if your memory was taken away? Our memory helps to mold us and how others view us. Could you imagine what life would be like if this was suddenly taken away from us?
Memory has a lot to do with ones self-identity as well as their group identity. If an individual grows up in a very negative environment, there is a good chance that the person will end up living a negative lifestyle. These memories help shape this person is in their adult life and how they interact with the world around them. For example, Richard Rodriguez grew up being afraid of strangers and people who spoke English fluently because when he was a child he couldn’t understand them and viewed them as a threat (Rodriquez).
Memory also helps shape our experiences. A memory can become special because it was the first time we accomplished something or because it was the end of an era of our lives. An example of this would be how the “Unknown White Male” couldn’t recall the first time he had seen snow (Unknown White Male). When it snowed for the first time after he lost his memory he was awe struck by it. If he hadn’t of lost his memory this event would seem unimportant to him.
People generally do not realize all that memory does from them because well, we’ve had it for as long as we can remember! Like many things, we have grown used to it and take it for granted. Once one steps back and takes a look at the power of memory, they cannot help but be amazed at all it has given us. Perhaps after reading this, you’ll have a new appreciation for memory, as it could be taken away at any moment.
- Jeremy O'Brien, Section 14.
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