Memories are retained in the subconscious from where they can be recalled to consciousness at will, remind us of things when triggered by similar or associated experiences, and assist us subconsciously in recognizing new experiences that are related to the past. Memory is a primary function of the basic self, which records the impressions of experience according to their perceived significance.
Memories vary greatly in strength, availability, and association patterns.
All experience exists forever in the omniscience of Spirit, but most impressions fade rapidly from subconsciousness into the unconscious. For most practical purposes, the unconscious is inaccessible, except through extraordinary spiritual investigation which is not a memory process. The memories that do return to consciousness are still a very small portion of the total subconscious of the person. All consciousness is experienced in the present, whether it be sense perceptions or thoughts and feelings about the past or future. These experiences simultaneously impress themselves on our consciousness and the biochemical cells of our bodies.