Each time you remember something, your brain reconstructs the memory from scratch.
Memories aren't files pulled from a mental hard drive—they're more like sketches redrawn each time you remember. That means every retelling or recollection can change small details, even if you're sure they're accurate. Your emotional state, current beliefs, or even who you're talking to can shift the memory slightly. It's part of why eyewitness accounts can vary and why stories evolve over time.