Forgive and Move On

All of us have experienced pain one way or the other... the kind of hurt or harm that will leave us depressed, angry, bitter and vindictive. And when we start dwelling on them, replaying them over and over again in our minds, they can grow bigger and more powerful. Before we know it, grudges filled with resentment and hostility start taking over our lives.

Why do we have to forgive? Because our lives may be so wrapped up in the wrong that we can no longer enjoy the present. When we hold on to pain, we may bring our anger and bitterness into every relationship and new experience in our lives, not to mention the long term health problems they may cause. And we may overlook each and every opportunity of happiness that comes our way. In the end, you will pay most dearly for all your grudges and resentment.

But then, forgiving is not the same as forgetting what happened to you. That will always remain a part of your life... a life lesson. That doesn't mean that you deny the other person's responsibility for hurting you. Neither does it minimize or justify the wrong. You forgive the person, not the act.

By learning to forgive, you can start focusing on and enjoying the positive areas of your life. By embracing forgiveness, you embrace peace, joy, hope and gratitude.

Look, life is short (as we all know by now). You either spend the rest of your life being happy or planning out a way to seek revenge. It's your choice...