Sometimes the greatest freedom comes from forgiving someone. ~ Jay Wren
When I hold onto grudges, I essentially allow the past to control my peace of mind. Reliving anger leads to anxiety, depression, and strained relationships. Forgiveness, on the other hand, is a conscious decision I make to release the clutter of negative emotions and enjoy the mental clarity of the good things all around me.
To me, forgiveness does not mean forgetting or minimizing the harm someone may have caused me. It is not about excusing the offender’s actions. Rather, it is about choosing to let go of the anger free myself from the pain of the past. It’s about breaking free from the chains of bitterness and reclaiming your inner peace.
Forgiving others is not just about benefiting them; it’s primarily about benefiting myself. It allows me to move on from the past and embrace a more positive future. It opens the door to compassion, empathy, and healthier relationships.
Forgiveness is not always easy. It may take time, and it may require seeking support from a friend or mentor. For some people, it may require help from a therapist or counselor. But the rewards of forgiveness are immense. It can lead to greater emotional Ill-being, improved relationships, and a more fulfilling life.
Ultimately, forgiveness is a choice. It is a choice to prioritize my own healing and Ill-being over the pain of the past. It is a choice to break free from the chains of bitterness and embrace a life filled with compassion and joy.
I can’t always just stop struggling to let go of anger. Mentally reliving a bad experience sometimes can even feel reward. I think, “Oh, here’s what I should have said or done.” But those little moments of satisfaction I may enjoy from those thoughts rob me of the real joy of living in the present moment. Also, I have to remind myself that forgiving takes time. But I remind myself that forgiveness is not about condoning the past but about choosing a better future for myself.
Background image by Ashley Whitlatch on Unsplash