Living the memory – Jim Ballard

Posted on September 18, 2009 by moonbridgebooks

James Ballard’s final post here reflects on observing one’s self in the here and now. What happens today are the seeds of future memories. Do you see them forming?

Part 3. Living the Memory

It can be confusing to think of creating a memory, because memories are moments of looking back at the past—i.e., they are re-collections. A useful way to get your mind around the issue is to play around with time.

Look back from the future

Take yourself in your imagination to a future moment in which you are looking back at Now. In that imagined future time, talk to yourself about this present moment. Say, That was important, and I didn’t even know it. How could I have dreamed what would occur as a result of that time?

See the present as memory potential

Looking back from the future puts you into a frame of mind of observing what is unique and potential about where you are right now. Practice being awake to the beauty and wonder of each passing moment. That is, after all, the only way to truly be alive.

Good luck making moments memorable!

Thanks, Jim, for your thought-provoking posts! Jim is a nationally known life coach, author, and motivational speaker. His fables challenge readers and listeners to manage their minds to generate joy by going beyond themselves. Visit Coach Jim’s blog or Jim Ballard’s website for further inspiration and information.

Linda Austin
“Cherry Blossoms in Twilight”
http://www.moonbridgebooks.com
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Jim Ballard – Making a memory

Posted on September 11, 2009 by moonbridgebooks

Jim Ballard, motivational speaker, life coach and author, posts the second in his series on memory. One of the missions of Cherry Blossom Memories blog is to encourage others to make good memories – and, yes, you can have a hand in creating good memories even out of bad or frustrating experiences.

Part 2: Making A Memory

Since memories are made of “what happened,” is it possible to “happen” one? Can we, at will, create a memorable moment? In order to purposely create a memory there are several things to remember.

Be mentally alert
Planning an event such as a special trip or party doesn’t guarantee a memory. How can we ensure that what happens will be “memorable?” If the “memory-ness” isn’t to be hit or miss, it’s necessary to be extra observant. Have the attitude, a memory could occur here at any moment – I mustn’t miss it.

Stay in the present
Memories occur in moments. Each memory is a unit of consciousness that was created in a single moment. Therefore, if we want to know how to create a memory, we must pay attention to the moments we’re in. In other words, live in present time.

So, soak in the essence of special moments, but if something goes awry look for the good in a situation as we all know the saying about clouds having silver linings, whether it be a good friend to the rescue, a bond being formed, daring to laugh instead of cry. Today is September 11, the anniversary of a horrifying tragedy. I choose to remember how our nation came together, how we gained new appreciation for our firemen and policemen, how we celebrated the lives of those lost. Be in the moment, look upward and forward.

Next week Jim will discuss “Living the Memory.” Visit Coach Jim’s blog for a dose of inspiration or Jim Ballard’s website for further information about him or to sign up for his newsletter.

Linda Austin
“Cherry Blossoms in Twilight”
http://www.moonbridgebooks.com
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Jim Ballard – What is a memory?

Posted on September 8, 2009 by moonbridgebooks


Jim Ballard is a nationally known life coach, a motivational speaker, and an author (Little Wave and Old Swell, Mind Like Water, and others). His fables challenge readers to manage their minds to generate joy by letting go of the whirlwinds of life. Jim’s blog, Coach Jim, offers encouragements for the day – a good day. Jim will be featured here in a 3-part series defining memory, making memory, and living memory. The word “memory” can be teased apart into strands that encompass more than just a factual occurrence.

Part 1: What is a Memory?

Before speaking of creating memories, what is it about a memory that would make us want more of them? When we recall a “precious” memory in a nostalgic way we’re doing more than just recollecting something, like what we had for breakfast. So, what is the difference between a memory and something merely recalled?

A memory has personal meaning.
A memory helps us remember something about ourselves that is notable. It may evoke a value, such as friendship, fun or travel. It may bring loved ones closer. It may call to mind an event that was special.

A memory evokes positive feeling.
What we call a memory is important because it makes us feel good. It may recall a special place or time, or it may bring tears because it touches the heart. It may recall a difficult time, but recreate the good feeling of having overcome odds.

A memory helps us define who we are.
It may even have the importance of what some call a defining moment. Recalling what we’ve achieved can help us face a present challenge. The memory of one who inspired us can do that again.

Stay tuned as later this week Jim discusses the interesting concept of creating good memories. Do we have control over our memories?

Linda Austin
“Cherry Blossoms in Twilight”
http://www.moonbridgebooks.com
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