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...
Hi Pinklady,
ReplyDeleteHow true, this is a beautiful post.
Thanks for reminding me of why I have to let go and forgive. So I can move on and grow from the past.
Take Care,
Janet :)
Janet, forgiveness is the first step towards healing. It doesn't mean you condone the act though.
ReplyDeleteBing;)
Right on, forgiveness is about yourself---from letting go of the pain that imprisons you.
ReplyDeleteYes Bingkee... after all, happiness is a matter of choice.
ReplyDeleteBing;)
Lovely viewpoint. I have the view that forgiveness is possible when the wrong can and is undone. Even if we have to undo the wrong ourselves.
ReplyDeleteIts about accepting our role in the wrong and taking responsibility. With responsibility on board we take control.
Being the victim does not entitle us to live the victim. It reduces us and punishes those who love us. If we truly hate the wrong thing then we will try to stop it reaching them through us.
Thank you Phil. I'm sure you can easily relate to this post. I just hope you get to apply it.
ReplyDeleteBing ;)