Like an elephant

 I've never really appreciated it.

Being told I have a memory like an elephant.  And how do we know that an elephant has a good memory? I googled that question and could have spent much more time than I want to devote to this column learning all the ways that people who study the socialization of animals have discovered that elephants remember. And since elephants live for a long time, it stands to reason that they remember for a long time as well.

I mean, really, who wants to be anything like a huge mammal, with big ears and a long trunk? I'd rather be. . . well, I don't really know what I would rather be. AND no one said I LOOK like an elephant.

Sounds like someone is being a tad sensitive. However, I do have a good memory.

Sometimes I love that about myself.  Sometimes it makes me sad.  Like everyone, I have good and bad memories.

This week, a friend sent me an encouraging text.  He said that he had read that only one in 100 persons alive today has something called HSAM - Highly superior autobiographical memory. It was further noted that some people can remember practically every day of their lives since childhood.

He ended his text with "you are blessed".

I was reflecting on that several hours later, and I suddenly remembered something I did long ago that will hopefully provide a solution to an issue I am currently facing.

And having a memory like an elephant took on a whole new meaning.  Besides, sometimes elephants are right cute.  I wanted to include a photo of Dumbo - but didn't want to break any copyright laws.

Just use your imagination.

And in the meantime, 

             May you have enough sunshine in your life 

                                            to help you appreciate the shadows