I’ve been wondering how to think about what has been. No longer existent, one’s past can only be imagined. Unlike the present or future, the past would seem to be ‘written in stone’ but for the interpretations we impose on it as we encounter new experiences.
Interpreting one’s past is further complicated by the complexities of our belief systems, moral imperatives and ability to think logically and reason. Our memories, furthermore, record only snapshots of past experiences limited by our fragmentary sensory capacities and fleeting attention spans, and for some of us experiential bits are conveniently forgotten in support of a delicate ego.
I’m beginning to realize the ‘what was’ is a realm of Being steeped in mystery. I sense my history is rich with unrecoverable experiences: makes me wonder how much potential understanding I’ve left behind.

I’ve been wondering recently how Jung’s “Active Imagination” technique would work with recalling our own past experiences. Would sound, smell, and emotional material come up as well. I suppose it would, but somehow colored by our present consciousness. 🤔
Love the illustration, btw.
I’ll check Jung out; re-evaluations will always be part of remembering. Makes me think about the complexities of experience, seems to downplay simple cause and effect at least on a personal level.
I can only imagine what these little rascals have been up to. Great Illustration!
Thanks Elizabeth.