Agree, McGrath and keberoxu. We don't want to actually forget. I always interpreted that quote of Emerson's as suggesting we not torment ourselves with our past mistakes by staying stuck in shame as self-punishment. That clinging to shame is a barrier to constructive change and healing.

Remembering a book I read many years ago by Joan Borysenko, "Guilt is the Teacher, Love is the Lesson."

Also wondering, keberoxu, if you are familiar with any of the books or writings of Stephen Levine?