What are memories and why do we find them so important? Where in our minds and in our hearts do we keep them? How is it possible for a scent, image, sound, taste, or feeling to recall a memory in an instant? More importantly, why do we remember what we remember? And, why is it what we remember may not be how others remember the same, exact event? I have found the reason to be perspective.

As I close my eyes to see my past, I remember so many things that are not even worth remembering. I can remember when I fell in the mud in the first grade and couldn’t go home to change. I remember getting my first school detention in the seventh grade and truly believing I had done nothing wrong. I even remember calling my friend by the wrong name and hoping no one had heard me.

And, on the same note, there are recollections I feel so fortunate to have committed to memory. I remember my difficulty to learn Spanish and all the right words I said wrong. I recall the stories told to me about my heritage and all of those who had come before me. I call to mind my memories of El Mirage, Arizona and how I would forever refer to it as home. All these things are my memories that fill my mind with wonder and my heart with emotion.

They make me who I am. My memories, my world, and who I am centers on my perception. It is with great pleasure I look back to look forward. How could I ever be afraid to look back? Nothing is catching up with me. I am, con orgullo1, embracing it; never forgetting my past, my heritage, and their visions of prosperity. It has always been about a better tomorrow, which happens to be my today.

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