One advantage of a good memory is the ability to empathize with others.
For example, as I watched a young adult friend navigate a situation, I remembered clearly what it was like to be that age and navigate similar situations. That created empathy. Had I only looked at the situation from my vantage point now, I would not have been able to understand the decisions made.
At every point in life, we look at similar situations differently. That is always so clear to me when I drive down a same street at different points in my life. I remember what it was like to drive in that locale the first time, second time, and many times after that. At first, the locale was new--I didn't know where the street lay in conjunction to other streets and landmarks. Then, perhaps, the next time I drove down the same street, I might recall that first glimpse of the area and what happened to me there, and after that it's likely that I began to know many places close to that street and many memories too. At every point in time, the street looked differently to me.
The same is true for similar experiences. For example, I've been traveling to the mountains for over fifty years to spend good times with family members. My earliest memories find me in a crowded station wagon traversing the mountain roads with butterflies of excitement in my tummy. Seeing those mountains for the first time was exciting. Then there's the memories of my sixteen-year-old self in the mountains discontented to be with family members rather than my friends and somewhat obstinate at every move my parents suggested. As young adult, I have fond memories of mountain adventures with friends and as a young mother, many good memories of sharing the mountain adventures with my young children. Now as an older parent, I find myself understanding my mom's role as the mountain cook and care taker during these family events--she packed the car, did the shopping, cooked the meals, and did all she could to make sure that everyone had a good time. A relatively same adventure every year with a large range of perspectives from one person.
The same is true for similar experiences. For example, I've been traveling to the mountains for over fifty years to spend good times with family members. My earliest memories find me in a crowded station wagon traversing the mountain roads with butterflies of excitement in my tummy. Seeing those mountains for the first time was exciting. Then there's the memories of my sixteen-year-old self in the mountains discontented to be with family members rather than my friends and somewhat obstinate at every move my parents suggested. As young adult, I have fond memories of mountain adventures with friends and as a young mother, many good memories of sharing the mountain adventures with my young children. Now as an older parent, I find myself understanding my mom's role as the mountain cook and care taker during these family events--she packed the car, did the shopping, cooked the meals, and did all she could to make sure that everyone had a good time. A relatively same adventure every year with a large range of perspectives from one person.
Most recently as my children begin to fall in love and partner with significant others, I remember the time when I fell in love and got married, and how my husband and I navigated our two families and the family life we wanted to create. That brings sensitivity and understanding to that stage of life.
Good memories help us to empathize. We can remember back to what it was like for us at various stages to get a sensitive perspective about what others are going through. Those memories coupled with good listening and care can help to deepen and strengthen relationships. This is positive.