Selective memory

Have you ever had a conversation with someone about a past event and found that their memory of it didn't quite match your own? As you discuss a particular topic, you may encounter blank stares on the part of the other person. You possess a clear picture of what occurred and they seem to either recall very different details or none at all. I have found myself on the receiving end of this more than once. My mother would bring up a conversation and describe it at length. My response would be, "I am sure we had this conversation, but I honestly don't remember a thing about it." It was as if my brain took the event and made a decision to lose or alter that file without my consent. I knew I hadn't lost my mind, but a piece of it was gone from my conscious attempt to retrieve it. It is not necessarily a symptom of early onset of dementia, but more likely isolated incidents. I have learned that this is a normal part of how the mind works. In some cases it selectively stores our memories perhaps based on a need at that time. It may have been embarrassing or threatening or just deemed to be an unimportant piece of information. What is important is to realize that it happens to all of us at some point and to accept that and not judge it. I can retell my account of the incident to my listener or listen to the other person and take in what they say. If I did not follow through on a commitment, I can acknowledge that and make amends. I have learned to be gentle with myself and take responsibility when it is appropriate. Where have you experienced selective memory in your life and how did you handle it?