Forgiveness

Forgiveness is easier said than done. When someone hurts you, it is sometimes easier to hold on to that anger versus forgiving the person. Maybe the act of forgiveness would be easier if the pain that it caused didn’t linger so much. The problem is that many times the people that hurt us are often the ones that we least expect it from. Many families, friendships, and other relationships have been destroyed due to the inability and unwillingness to forgive. Some make the decision to live in pain and anguish for decades, all the while creating a mental prison for themselves. I guess that’s why they say that the act of forgiving others can be “freeing”. Don’t get it twisted, we’re not suggesting you condone the actions of a person causing you pain. Forgive and forget? Absolutely not! However, when the pain of holding on to the wrongdoing in the past continues to follow you into the future, you have a choice. Be bitter or let it go. By forgiving, you are making sure the person who is awarded your forgiveness, is no longer in charge of your happiness – or lack thereof. Taking back the power means that you forgive the person, not the action. By letting go of grudges you no longer give the person who wronged you, the satisfaction of hindering your happiness. When we hold on to hurt, pain, resentment, and anger it harms us far more than it harms the offender. Some people may think forgiving others is a sign of weakness, but in fact it shows immense strength. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.” Be strong. Be courageous. Forgive and be free.

FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION