> Those feelings aren’t just linked to the memory; they are part of it: The brain assigns an emotional “valence” to information as it encodes it, locking in exp

> Those feelings aren’t just linked to the memory; they are part of it: The brain assigns an emotional “valence” to information as it encodes it, locking in experiences as good or bad memories. I have doubts about the "locking" part. Many of my memories don't age well: as I revisit them I find that what felt like good memories, in fact weren't. Sometimes it's because I changed my mind; but often it's because I forced myself to enjoy something I actually didn't care for, and as time passes my willingness to fake enjoyment, fades.