Wellness

Choosing to forget

June 01, 2011

 I find it intriguing that modern science is on the verge of creating opportunities to help people erase traumatic memories from their minds. While I completely understand the theory behind using such a practice, I can't help but wonder what will be the perimeters that determine what constitutes a 'too' painful memory. Anyone suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PSTD) certainly would agree that helping to minimize or eliminate altogether the memories that stir their present day symptoms would be a welcome thing, but it is difficult for me to fully grasp the ripple effect of taking such actions. 
Is it true that all of our life experiences, at some level, make us who we are, and that separately the good from the bad is, in some way, like playing God? Is there a bigger picture at play? And, if we, as a society, begin to condone this practice, where will it lead? Will the range of what is considered acceptable broaden as time passes? Will we begin to decide what 'is' and what 'isn't' too painful to remember will less and less care? 
What do you think? 

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