Many years ago, a man who worked for my father used the word “disremember.” He was a good worker, but needed frequent reminders. When he forgot to do something, he’d say, “I’m sorry I disremembered to do that.”
While this terminology brings a chuckle and stretches the bounds of made-up words, it’s actually not a bad idea to stop ruminating on certain words, memories, and ideas. Likewise, there are other things that are important and beneficial to remember.
A crucial step in forward motion is remembering what helps you take the next step, but also “disremembering” what holds you back.
What to Disremember
Criticism – One of the most prevalent forms of self-elevation is criticizing others. Doubtless, you know someone adept at casually dishing out criticism, while smiling. The person who said, “words can never hurt me,” was wrong. Criticism is like a thousand little knife cuts that continue to bleed and fester with time. Moving beyond criticism requires determination. It may help to remember most critics are jealous, insecure, or legalistic and their opinion is just their perspective.
Hurts/Embarrassments – We’ve all been hurt by being excluded, or having someone purposely embarrass us. When I was in high school, a girl in my class was skilled at asking me questions in front of others and then twisting my answers to make me look stupid. She even had a group of girls who followed her around and acted as her cheerleaders, constantly ready to laugh and whisper at those she targeted. Most of the time, I’m successful at “disremembering” those years, but even to this day, I’m easily embarrassed.
Regrets – We all have regrets, but we can’t go back in time and change what we said, did, or failed to say or do. However, we can learn from those times and take the lessons with us as we move ahead.
Confessed and Forgiven Sin – Satan loves to resurrect past mistakes and sins and use them to damage our self-esteem. Enticing us to sin, and then continually reminding us how much we messed up, is the devil’s specialty. But this is what we need to remember about what God does with confessed sin: “As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12 AMP).
What to Remember
Blessings – Our culture tells us success and position are dependent on our own efforts, when, in fact, anything we obtain, or accomplish, is the result of God’s blessing. It’s easy to focus on things in our lives that are difficult, or not what we want, but when you shift your vision to blessings, your perception changes.
Achievements – Discouragement is one of our greatest enemies. That’s why it’s good to occasionally remind yourself of what you’ve accomplished, or overcome, viewed through a lens of gratitude rather than self-sufficient pride.
Others – Sometimes we become so self-focused we forget there are others struggling with life issues, too. Take time to think of others and help when possible.
Promises – While we all have people in our lives who fall far short of what they promise, God’s promises are true, trustworthy, and memorable. What God promises, He does.
Hope – While today may look bleak with insurmountable hurdles, tomorrow brings hope, new perspectives, and ideas for solutions. You don’t have to do everything in your own strength or out of your own resources. Others are wise and willing to help. And God is your greatest advocate and friend. All you have to do is ask.
“The Lord’s unfailing love and mercy still continue, Fresh as the morning, as sure as the sunrise” (Lamentations 3:22-23 GNT).
©CandyArrington
Candy Arrington is an award-winning writer, blogger, and speaker. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotions published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).
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