By Kyra Oakland

I’ve read The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle a few times, and I can say the central message is incredibly important for organizing my thoughts, opinions, and emotions. Yet, ultimately, his view of memory feels a bit distasteful to me.

I’m not sure if it’s because of my grief that I didn’t like his delivery, but I believe our memories carry more weight than he allows. Especially the memories I cherish—the ones that cling to my mind and body, resurfacing in the midst of random tasks: from cooking to laundry, or the way I move in yoga or strength training.

I completely understand the concept of seizing the moment and recognizing that the only time that truly exists is now. Tolle offers powerful advice for motivation, discipline, and creating the life we desire most.

But I argue that the desire for a certain lifestyle often comes from reflecting on past thoughts and actions—learning from our experiences. That reflection requires analyzing the past. There have been countless realizations I wouldn’t have had if I hadn’t revisited conflicts or situations from years ago, even ten years past. Tolle acts as if we could simply buy a memory remote from Amazon and erase all the messy stuff. This isn’t Men in Black. Even though some days I wish I could delete certain moments, I also love the woman I am and continue to become—and without those experiences, I wouldn’t be me. (Though that’s a rant for another time.)

There is a deep and valuable message within this book, but I could only take in so much before it became unrelatable. I absolutely encourage anyone struggling with procrastination or anxiety to read it—but personally, I don’t think every piece of guidance can be taken literally.

Simply yours, Ky