John Ratcliff's discussion of memory is absolutely fascinating. I love the photos that illustrate it as well.

Sometimes I think that taking photos is a waste of time; you've been there so you'll have the memories. Yet, like John, I've occasionally found myself staring at old photos and I have no idea who some of the participants are. It's so cool that he's been able to reach out and connect with his old friend Donna as well! And that she was able to give him the jumpstart on memories he has hidden deep inside.

Several years ago, I was putting photos from a box into an album and came across my old rifle drill team photos -- I had completely forgotten how much that team meant to me and that I'd been involved in it. I lived, slept, and dreamt about that team in high school for all four years and ten years later or so, I'd forgotten completely the joy that it brought me. That really shocked me when the memories returned because it had been such an important part of my life, I could never have imagined forgetting it. Yet, without the photos I had closed off those memories because I never used them any more. Kind of like the old prom dresses hanging in my closet; I've carted them around for over 20 years and it's not like I'm going to a prom again anytime soon -- but they're there if I need them.

My memory though is pretty poor. As Rob will tell you, I can't even quote him when I want to argue a point with him :) For me I think it's the passion that overlays everything, so that the memory is not exact but the emotions remain. Not a good technique for debate. :)