This quote highlights the involuntary nature of forgetfulness—how certain memories or details fade from our consciousness not as a matter of choice, but as an unavoidable consequence of our mental and emotional landscapes. Often, forgetfulness is perceived negatively, associated with loss or frailty; however, it also serves as a crucial mechanism for emotional resilience and cognitive efficiency. The idea that we forget because we must underscores the natural limits of our memory capacity and the necessity of selective retention. Our brains are constantly bombarded with information, and to function optimally, they must prioritize, filter, and sometimes dispose of below-threshold details.

Moreover, this quote prompts us to consider the distinction between willing and forced forgetting. We frequently choose to forget certain things—intentional suppression or denial—yet much of our forgetting occurs beyond our volition. This involuntary process can be protective, shielding us from painful memories or overwhelming stimuli, allowing us to move forward amidst adversity. It also reflects the impermanence of memory, which is inherently fluid, subject to decay, distortion, and external influences.

On a broader level, the quote encourages acceptance of this natural process. Instead of resisting forgetfulness, understanding its necessity and inevitability can foster healthier attitudes towards memory and history. It reminds us that forgetting is not purely a failure but also a vital part of human cognition that facilitates growth, healing, and adaptation. By embracing the idea that we forget because we must, we might find greater peace with our vulnerabilities and the transient nature of our memories.