I literally forget everything, and, trust me, that's the best

In the words of Hina Khan, "I literally forget everything, and, trust me, that's the best thing that you can have." At first, these words may seem paradoxical. How could forgetting, especially in a world that constantly demands memory and focus, be the best thing we can possess? Yet, upon deeper reflection, Khan’s wisdom unveils a truth that has echoed throughout the ages—sometimes, the ability to forget is not a curse, but a gift. It is a reminder that true freedom lies not in holding onto the past but in releasing the burdens that weigh us down. Forgetting, in this sense, becomes a form of liberation, a path to peace and clarity that allows us to move forward without the shackles of regret or resentment.

The ancient Stoics, those philosophers who sought tranquility and wisdom amidst a chaotic world, understood the value of forgetting. Marcus Aurelius, one of the greatest Stoic emperors, wrote about the importance of letting go of past grievances and the impermanence of life. In his Meditations, he taught that we should not dwell on past mistakes or memories but instead focus on the present moment. Aurelius’ teachings align closely with Khan’s perspective: holding onto the past—whether it is pain, regret, or past triumphs—can cloud the mind and impede our growth. Only by forgetting, by releasing these anchors, can we move forward into a new chapter, unburdened and free.

Consider the example of Nelson Mandela, who, after spending 27 years in prison, emerged with a heart of forgiveness rather than bitterness. Mandela had every reason to cling to anger and resentment for the injustices he faced, yet he chose to forget the hatred that had been inflicted upon him. By releasing the past, he was able to embrace a future of reconciliation and unity for his nation. His ability to forget—not in the sense of erasing memories, but in the sense of not allowing them to control his actions—was the very reason he was able to lead South Africa into peace after the fall of apartheid. Mandela’s example demonstrates that true strength lies in our ability to release the past and move toward a future built on understanding and healing.

The act of forgetting, as Khan suggests, is not about losing memory, but about choosing what we allow to influence us. The Buddhists, in their teachings, often speak of the need to let go of attachments—whether to past experiences, expectations, or desires. Attachment, they teach, is the root of suffering. When we cling to the past—whether in the form of regret over missed opportunities or anger over past wrongs—we remain bound to those experiences. True freedom, the Buddhists say, comes from the ability to release these attachments, to forget the things that no longer serve us, and to find peace in the present moment. In a similar way, Khan’s words remind us that forgetting can be an act of profound clarity and strength.

The lesson embedded in this simple truth is one of liberation. Life constantly moves forward, and the past, whether good or bad, is always behind us. Forgetting the weight of past disappointments or triumphs allows us to meet each new moment with fresh eyes and a clear mind. It is only when we are no longer weighed down by the baggage of past experiences that we can fully embrace the present and move toward a future filled with possibility. Freedom comes not in the accumulation of knowledge or memories, but in the release of what no longer serves us. By forgetting, we make room for the new, the unknown, and the unfolding beauty of life.

In our own lives, let us consider the practice of forgetting as a means of liberation. When we find ourselves burdened by the past—whether by regret, grief, or unresolved conflict—let us choose to release those memories. This is not to say we should ignore our history, but that we should not allow it to dictate our future. Reflect on the lessons of the past, but let go of the emotions that bind us to it. Forgiveness—whether of others or ourselves—is a powerful tool for forgetting and healing. Let us make peace with the past so that we may move forward into a brighter, freer future.

Ultimately, Khan’s wisdom calls us to a life of presence—a life where we are not shackled by what was, but open to what is. It invites us to trust that by forgetting, we gain the freedom to live fully, to experience the world without the filters of past pain or triumph. In each new day, we are given the opportunity to start fresh, to embrace the moment, and to trust that in letting go, we find the peace we have long sought.