"چون به یاد می‌آورم ناامید می‌شوم چون به یاد می‌آورم وظیفه دارم ناامیدی را رد کنم"

Memory is a powerful tool. It’s our link to the past, and sometimes, it can be a heavy burden. This quote gets right to the heart of that dichotomy: memory can lead us to feelings of despair, but it also empowers us with the responsibility to overcome those feelings.

Let’s break it down. Remembering certain events, especially painful ones, can bring a wave of sorrow. Think about it—when we remember moments of loss, failure, or trauma, it’s natural to feel a sense of despair. The pain feels fresh, like it just happened. However, the quote emphasizes that this same memory compels us to push back against that despair. It’s almost like a call to action. If we remember the hardships we or others have faced, we owe it to ourselves and those memories to not be overwhelmed by them.

This statement holds a lot of historical weight. It’s often discussed in the context of survivors of great tragedies, like the Holocaust. Survivors remember the horrors vividly. Their memories are filled with immense pain, which could easily lead to a life shadowed by despair. But many of these survivors use their memories to fuel their resilience and to honor the lives lost by living fully and fighting against the evils that caused such suffering.

Let’s think of a real-life example: Malala Yousafzai. When she was just a young girl, she was shot by the Taliban for advocating for girls’ education. That’s a memory that could easily lead to a lifetime of fear and despair. But Malala chose differently. She remembers what happened to her—not to let it bring her down, but to give her strength and purpose. She continues to fight for girls' education worldwide, turning her painful memory into a powerful mission.

How can you apply this wisdom to your life? It starts with acknowledging your painful memories. Don’t shy away from them. Face them head-on. Yes, they may bring moments of despair, but don’t stop there. Ask yourself: What can I do with this memory? How can it fuel something positive? Maybe it’s advocating for a cause, helping others in similar situations, or simply becoming a stronger version of yourself.

Imagine a friend named Sophie. Sophie lost her job during a tough economic downturn. It was a painful experience—one that left her feeling hopeless. Every time she remembered getting that pink slip, despair crept in. But Sophie didn’t let that define her. She used that memory as a driving force to build her skills and start her own business. She remembered the struggle, but instead of letting it paralyze her, she used it to propel her forward.

In a nutshell, memories of difficult times are double-edged swords. They can cut deep with despair, but they also have the power to sharpen our resolve. Remembering is part of being human. It’s how we process life’s ups and downs. By choosing to remember and reject despair, we honor our past and build a resilient future. So, the next time a tough memory surfaces, don’t just sit with the sadness. Think about how you can flip the script and let that memory drive you to something greater.