Forgiveness does not mean that we condone someone’s behavior. Forgiveness means we let go of the emotions which arise, & we feel, in regards to something that was done to us. These emotions are harmful, both physically & mentally; but they are ONLY harmful to us.

Think about this for a moment: if someone offends, hurts, or mistreats you in some way, and then you get all upset, stressed-out, and angry for the day, or worse, even a few days; then who’s being affected by these negative emotions? ONLY YOU!

These emotions aren’t hurting the individual who harmed you. For all you know (unless it was a close friend or family member) the person you’re upset & angry with may be sitting, on a beach in Hawaii, having the time of their lives. Do you think they are bothered one bit by your thoughts & emotions?

Your thoughts, your anger, your resentment, your frustration, are only eating you up inside. And negative emotions are toxic to our health. Stress, negative thoughts, and emotions can manifest as physical illness. And this is why learning how to forgive is extremely important.

But again, forgiveness is not condoning what was done to you; it’s not denying what was done to you; and it’s not forgetting what was done to you either. Forgiveness doesn’t mean if you know the person who hurt you that you must let them back into your life and risk the chance that they may hurt you again. You DON’T have to ever again trust that person; if that is what you choose.

Forgiveness denying or suppressing the emotions & feelings you are having either. Forgiveness is about recognizing that you are hurt; becoming aware of how you are feeling; why you are feeling that way; but then the important step is to let go of it. You must learn that holding on to these emotions & thoughts are affecting your attitude, your happiness, your joy, and they are even holding you back from having peace in your life. Why hold onto any anger or resentment? Why carry all that extra baggage around? Only by letting go of the past can you start to create a better future!

If it means you can’t trust someone again, that’s ok. There are plenty of other people in the world who will be respectful to you, supportive of you, kind to you, and truly care about you. Remember that even Buddha and Jesus weren’t loved and treated well by everyone.

Now if you are having trouble forgiving someone, then try turning to prayer. Whenever a thought or feeling about them or the hurt that you’ve suffered surfaces, turn that thought or feeling into a signal to stop & pray. Ask God to help you forgive that person; and pray for that person to be forgiven as well. Sometimes, it is helpful to think of the person as a spiritually sick individual who doesn’t have the understanding about the correct way to treat people. Often it’s easier to be a little more forgiving or compassionate when someone is sick. And therefore, cultivating such a mindset may make it easier to forgive them.

God bless you on your journey. And please remember to always – Heed the Spirit!

Anthony

Save