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About this quote

What does it mean?
Attempts to suppress memories often make them more persistent and vivid.
In plain terms
Trying to forget something makes it stay in your mind.
What can you take from it?
Accept difficult memories instead of fighting them.

Where it applies

  • trauma
  • learning
  • self-reflection

Putting it to work

  • journaling
  • acknowledging feelings
  • mindfulness

Questions to consider

  • What have you tried to forget that won't leave?
  • How do you deal with unwanted memories?

Another view

Sometimes forgetting is necessary for mental health and moving forward.

More from Michel de Montaigne

  1. Not being able to govern events, I govern myself.

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  2. Of all our infirmities, the most savage is to despise our being.

    Permalink to quote #109
  3. No wind serves him who addresses his voyage to no certain port.

    Permalink to quote #104

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