This is just what I was thinking. At a certain age, one has to deliberately grab their thoughts and realize that the finger they're pointing at the person(s) they blame for their problems, have three more pointing right back at them.
If necessary, pretend you have no past; especially, if it stirs the demons that keep you from moving forward in positive progression.
Let the people in your past serve to remind you of why you choose not to drink...do drugs...make lots of children with women who aren't your wife...on and on...
Be the mentor...the example you want the next generation to represent...Otherwise, your living might just be in vain, and a sad replica of the past.
Peace.