stop feeling angry or resentful toward (someone) for an offense, flaw, or mistake
I’m sorry.
It’s okay.
I forgive you.
Let that shit go!
What is it about forgiveness that makes it so difficult? I think forgiveness is so difficult because the act of forgiveness in and of itself does not get rid of the hurt or pain. It is the first step in the healing process and we all know how difficult healing can be. Necessary and so fulfilling, but man, the process in between, the healing, is so challenging and demanding.
If I am completely honest, forgiveness requires a bit of reflection and personal work as well. Every situation is unique, but for the most part, I believe you may have to hold up a mirror and take a long hard look at yourself. What role did you play in the particular situation?
Forgiveness goes hand in hand with hope and grace. During these trying times. We hold on to hope, extend grace and offer forgiveness. Forgiveness provides a sense of release and is critically important to your mental health. Forgiveness requires compassion. Forgiveness requires humility. Forgiveness requires trust. So, if forgiveness is the key to letting go a difficult situation, then compassion is moving on with grace. Are you up for the challenge?
For me, the hardest person to forgive is myself. It is so easy to continue to punish myself for past mistakes and wrongdoings. And if I am completely honest & transparent, I still haven’t forgiven myself, not fully. I am a work in progress. I realize guilt and shame are not productive or good for my mental health, so I need to follow a few steps to do this for myself. The key to this process would be owning up to mistakes or wrongdoings, understand why it happened, and work to remedy the situation.
Journaling helps tremendously. Writing is therapeutic, a form of expression, a release. It is safe and it forces you to put words to your feelings, it forces you to be mindful and helps with your overall wellbeing. Journaling / writing forces you to use your words and consider and evaluate those feelings. This is precisely why I am offering journaling prompts and encouraging this exercise of reflection.
Are you carrying something in your life that you have not fully healed from? If so, write about it.
Who do you need to forgive?
How can you forgive yourself?
Why is forgiving difficult for you?
How does forgiveness make you feel?
Think of the person who needs forgiveness - write them a letter.
keep pushing through