i think it's also good to think about why rememberances / dreams come up at a particular time. Why this memory? Why now?

I totally agree that ruminating can be an attempt to work through / process. There have been times I get a new perspective when ruminating. Other times not, but maybe those times I get better connected to the event and my emotions about it. Anyway, I think there is usually a reason and some kind of growth involved.

Off to the US? Welcome, in advance alex!