" Memories are just stories we tell ourselves about our past; and that’s often why they don’t match when we’ve shared the same experiences with someone. "
- John Slattery

Memories can often feel like personal narratives that we construct based on our individual experiences and perspectives. This means that when someone recounts an event, they might emphasize certain details while omitting others, leading to a unique interpretation of what happened. As a result, even when multiple people share the same experience, their recollections may differ significantly due to personal biases and emotional attachments.

The deeper meaning behind this quote lies in understanding how subjective our memories are. Each person's memory is filtered through their own lens, shaped by emotions, personal beliefs, and individual perceptions at the time of an event. This subjectivity explains why two people who witness the same incident can have drastically different recollections later on. It also highlights the importance of recognizing that others’ perspectives might be equally valid and valuable, even if they differ from our own. By acknowledging this variability in memory formation, we become more empathetic listeners when engaging with others' stories.

John Slattery is an American actor best known for his role as Roger Sterling in the television series "Mad Men." He has also lent his voice to various film projects and contributed memorable lines like the one mentioned here. His ability to reflect on human nature through characters he plays showcases a depth of understanding about people's complexities, including how they perceive and remember experiences over time.