| APRIL 2010 -- As we look forward to the coming of a new season in the year, let us consider how we can forgive ourselves and others. Holding a grudge can have a negative effect on our lives. When we are not absorbed in living our daily lives we tend to turn to thoughts of revenge. We love the anger and plan our attack so as to make them suffer.
The truth is that underneath we are frightened about the future and our success in the days to come. Our lives are in a constant state of turmoil and we churn with fury inside. Our thinking is muddled and at best we have trouble with even the simplest decisions. We can slip into a deep hole that threatens to pull you deeper with each angry thought.
If you are still harboring angry feelings about anyone in your life, it's never too late to forgive them. The act of forgiveness will bring you benefits that can change your life. Many studies have demonstrated that forgiveness is key to leading a happy life.
Here are some thoughts about forgiveness to consider. We forgive for our own sake, not the other persons. Forgiveness frees us from harboring negative thoughts. Forgiveness does not mean you condone the actions of the other person. Forgiving the other person does not mean you want to have a relationship with the other person. Forgiving releases you from being at the mercy of the other person's actions or their emotional impact on you. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting, you may still have memories but you may think about them and decide to expend your energy elsewhere.
Forgiveness can improve your physical, mental and spiritual health. When we forgive, we take care of ourselves first. Try some simple techniques when those angry feelings come up. Say to yourself, "may I have inner peace and may they have inner peace". You now move on with your life and get busy doing something, preferably something you enjoy. |
