We Can Live With Forgetting

by John Herlihy

In remembering we end up forgetting,

Things happen and then they disappear.

In forgetting we end up remembering,

Stored memories thankfully reappear.

Perhaps we can live with forgetting,

Then find joy in suddenly remembering.

Instead of always trying to remember,

Then feel more regret in the forgetting.

What is it that we end up remembering,

Oftentimes many things we should forget.

What is it that we end up forgetting,

No doubt things we want to remember.

What we remember leaves behind a message,

Something we want or need to hear again.

What we forget also leaves behind a message,

Forgotten things as if they have never been.

What we forget finds shimmering beauty,

A flower that in some distant place blooms.

Forgotten but waiting to be remembered,

Floating thru the mind as colored balloons.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Sunday 31 August 2025