I recently read about a hospital doctor who used to prescribe “memory breaks” for his patients. Before leaving the room, he’d say, “I have one more important prescription for you. I want you to take a ‘memory break’: one at ten o’clock and one at three o’clock.”

“Close your eyes. Relax your body. Then recall three happy times from your past. Spend as much time as you can reliving each happy event.” I think the good doctor was on to something. “Memory breaks” can be very healing experiences.

Just think how helpful this could be when a family member or close friend does something that really disappoints us. It really hurts us. I think it would be a good time to take a “memory break” and spend a few minutes thinking of the best good times you have had with that person.

There are times we disappoint ourselves. We acted out of character and really said or did something we really feel terrible about. A memory break would really be helpful by spending several moments thinking of some of the times you were especially happy with your conduct or the time you overcame a serious temptation.

There is an interesting passage from the book of Hebrews that tells us that “God will not forget your work and love.” I think that means God takes a “memory break” with us and recalls the good things we did in life. I find this most encouraging.

God bless …