CONFESSION OF A CRIME HAS A HEALING EFFECT ON OUR BRUISED PSYCHE

We tend to forget our crimes as most of us are not given to confessing our crimes. One of the greatest qualities in a person that can bring back peace of mind and happiness is to confess and regret our crimes, small or big.

I do not think there can be any person on this planet who has not committed any crime. The crime may not be murder or rape; it could be a case of abusing someone or even misbehaving in a public transport system.

What we should do is that we look back, at least over a period of one year, and see where we erred and committed a crime or crimes. Even if we don’t do anything to ‘undo’ the crime, or don’t punish ourselves in a suitable manner, that would be okay provided we confess and regret and vow to never ever do such things.

This process has a great healing effect and our bruised psyche gets a ‘lift’. You feel ashamed of your deed, and feel sorry and vow never to repeat such things.

American philosopher Criss Jami, in Killosophy, says: “A man does not have to feel less than human to realise his sin; oppositely, he has to realise that he gets no special vindication for his sin.”

That is to say, ultimately, a confession is in itself a punishment as well as a reward, depending on the way you take it. (Inner Voice comprises contributions from our readers The views expressed are personal) innervoice@hindustantimes.com n