forgetting

Perhaps it was not sheer forgetfulness that propelled many in history to repeat history. I think some might have recalled history but actively choose to ignore it, either cox they are blinded by temptations, ambitions or hatred, or feel that lightning seldom strike twice.

To a certain extent, I think big or bad events are seldom forgotten. Forgetting only appears to have taken place when there is a conscious attempt to put them away. To quote the tsunami disaster for again, I think few survivors would ever really forget the trauma of losing their loved ones and what they have built up. But I believe it was due to their sheer will and strength that allowed them to make a conscious effort to put the past aside, and work towards rebuilding their lives. Note I use the word "aside" instead of "behind" cox I believe these things never get forgetten. At least not in their lifetime. Perhaps burying the memories somewhere makes them fainter but they are always there. Perhaps future governments might appear to have forgotten (for instance, they do nothing about putting in measures to mitigate impact of such events) but that might be political myopia rather than amnesia.

Forgetting bad things can be a function of strength and also a function of denial. Whichever it is, it is mostly a choice.

On the other hand, true forgetfulness is a condition in which we try but fail to recollect. Hence, to me, this lack of choice can only be a bane.