What new memory did you make yesterday or today?  What happened over the past 48 hours that you will remember for a week, a month, or a year?  Allow me to go a little deeper.  What was the name of the person who sat two seats behind you or in front of you in third grade?  Whether you are thinking of something painful, like a fall down a stair, something that warmed your heart – like hearing, “I love you,” or maybe it was the twinge of licorice on the sides of your tongue – a telltale characteristic of a Montalcino wine, we cannot remember everything, forever.  That is just the way it is. 

If I were to ask you about a time that you got into trouble as a kid, exactly how you were told of the loss of a loved one, what you were wearing when you learned of a betrayal, or what sense of fear you had the first time you nearly choked on food, you’d remember quite well.  And, too, you’d remember the good stuff. First kiss – what a feeling. Birth of a child – seeing him for the first time.  The sound of your favorite singer in real life.  A perfume that brings you back in time.  Or maybe it is the existential feeling of winning.  As you read those snippets – things were flashing in your mind, right?

I went on Amazon to see how much it would cost to buy one of those red-light zappers that Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones use in the Men in Black movies.  But since the roots of all of our pains, and all of our joys, grudges, nostalgia, hopes for the future, and even our personalities are directly intertwined with the one-of-a-kind sequence of memories that every person has, the red-light zapper wouldn’t do much good – for in our attempts to erase any memory – we could wind up erasing parts of ourselves.  Our memories are like fingerprints –no two will ever be the same. 

And this is what really stinks about a life spent on social media.  As people spend more and more time all alone, like hermits – posting, clicking, liking, and judging – what real-life memories are being created?  Social media gives people a mirage of connection, friendship, acceptance, and belonging – all without the unforgettable memories…the thumbs up replaces the high five…the heart emoji replaces the hug…and entire face-to-face conversations are replaced by a single meme.  On social media, people become shut-ins, and the stimulation of whatever they type replaces the intimacy of what could be a real and memorable face-to-face interaction.  Judgment is everywhere, and real life-changing memories are created with people nowhere. 

Translating this adult concept to our schools, each child is a repository of unique memories, shaping their perceptions and interactions with the world around them. The experiences they encounter in school - be it a word of encouragement from a teacher, the thrill of mastering a new concept, or the camaraderie in a school project - are actively shaping their memory. Just as we recall vivid memories from our own childhood, today's students are forming memories that will influence their future selves. This highlights the critical role of educators in creating positive, impactful learning experiences. By fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment, teachers can contribute significantly to the positive memories that shape students' self-esteem, resilience, and a lifelong love for learning.

Moreover, understanding the diversity of memories and experiences students bring into the classroom is crucial for inclusive and practical education. Each student's background - their joys, struggles, family dynamics, and cultural experiences - informs how they engage with the educational material and their peers. This diversity of memories means that a one-size-fits-all approach to teaching can be less effective. Now, in schools, we are tasked with the challenge and opportunity to tailor their teaching methods, ensuring that each child's learning experience is as enriching and affirming as possible. Recognizing and valuing each student's unique memory imprints helps create a more empathetic and responsive educational environment.

Lastly, the power of memories in shaping our identities and worldviews (a TCIS word) underscores the importance of a well-rounded education. Beyond academic knowledge, schools are pivotal in creating experiences that teach empathy, teamwork, critical thinking, and resilience. Activities like arts, sports, and social interactions are not just extracurricular; they are memory-building exercises that contribute to the holistic development of a child. These experiences, alongside academic learning, help craft well-rounded individuals who carry these positive memories into adulthood, influencing their career choices, relationships, and personal growth.