“Us, people, are dynamic system. The past that we have experienced contributes into making us into who we are today.” — R.A.S.
He once said to us, his students, that a dynamic system behaves in such a way that looks like it has memories. Even system inanimate objects such as a system of mass-damper-spring (MDS for short). In a way, I can see his point. Well, kind of anyway.
First of all, a dynamic system’s behavior is influenced by its’ initial condition and boundary condition. Secondly, its’ behavior is also influenced by the input it received. For example, two identical MDS system, different initial displacement of the mass would result in different motion. Giving an extra wall that impedes the movement of an MDS system’s mass would also yield its’ own unique result. As you can guess, adding disturbance in the middle of said system’s motion, let’s say a flick on the mass, would also influence the movement of the system.
I think it’s the difference in motion that have lead him to that conclusion. In a way, it can be interpreted as the system’s memory.
It is after I graduated and have met a lot of people that I truly get what he meant through his string of words.
“My past doesn’t define who I am.”
I disagree. Well, partially anyway. Your past may not define who you are today; however, it certainly contributes into making the person you are today. You have your own unique initial and boundary conditions. Some started with what would normally be considered as… uh… unfortunate setup; some with unfathomable privileges. Some of us encounter adversaries or fortunes along the way, the flicking finger as I said.
Yes, to some extent you should be able to let go of the past; there’s no point in dwelling in the past while being consumed by the thoughts of things that could’ve been, but in order to let go you have to first acknowledge your past. Most importantly, what can you learn from them. Assuming most of my readers are 18 or older; if there is absolutely nothing you can learn from your past, go get some help seriously. Hmph.
However, a friend of mine once said the following:
“The second most important lesson we can get is from our experience. The most important lesson we can get is another person’s experience; that’s why history is written/archived” — R.I.P.
So, to anyone who read this; take a brief moment to think about the events and circumstances that contributed to making you the person you are today. Ask yourself (unironically), “Why am I like this?”. I bet the answers lie in your past. If you find it hard to get to know yourself alone, ask your friends or anyone to ask you; to be your mirror, to assist you. Even better, maybe the lot of you can share each other’s experience; memories, thoughts and feelings.
“Only then you can let go.” — Y.F.
Please, don’t mistake my 2 cents as an advice to dwell in the past. Reflecting upon something does not equate to dwelling in it. And lastly buat importantly:
“The past does not exist to remind the present that the future can’t be changed; the past should exist for the sake of the future” — R.S.
