Letting go of grudges and bitterness !
Words have power that can cause hurt and happiness beyond actions. Criticism and applause are remembered with lasting effects. When we develop emotional wounds, these can cause bitterness and anger which can develop into vengeance and haunt us for life. Thinking about our traumatic experiences can help us overcome these feelings to live a fulfilled life. We need to practise forgiveness and embrace peace, hope, happiness, gratitude, joy, and content. What is forgiveness? Forgiveness can have many meanings to different people. It is a conscious decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. By releasing these emotions, we can embrace the positive feelings of a fulfilled life. The act that caused you hurt and anger might always stay with you even after forgiveness. The difference is the absence of the grip of that event that holds on to you and controls your emotions. Freedom does not mean excusing someone’s behavior or forgetting the harm that was caused or seeking revenge to make it an even exchange of emotions. Forgiveness is a decision to bring peace to that event and understanding the circumstances behind it. Forgiveness is acknowledging the event and learning from it. Find out what forgiveness means to you and what would help you become a peaceful person. How to achieve forgiveness •Recognize the value of forgiveness and how it can improve your life •Identify what needs healing and who needs to be forgiven and for what •Consider joining a support group or seeing a counselor •Acknowledge your emotions about the harm done to you and how they affect your behavior, and work to release them. •Choose to forgive the person who’s offended you •Move away from your role as victim and release the control and power the offending person and situation have had in your life Benefits of forgiveness •Healthier relationships •Improved mental health •Less anxiety, stress and hostility •Lower blood pressure •Fewer symptoms of depression •A stronger immune system •Improved heart health •Improved self-esteem