Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Forgiveness and Freedom


 

by Janet M. Shlaes, Ph.D.

“Issue a blanket pardon. Forgive everyone who has ever hurt you in any way. Forgiveness is a perfectly selfish act. It sets you free from the past.”  ~ Brian Tracy

A major misconception regarding forgiveness is that it’s a decision that miraculously lets someone off the hook for their words and/or actions. This misconception is responsible for much resistance and self-criticism. Although forgiveness is an intentional choice, it often is a highly challenging one that needs to be revisited on an ongoing basis; it's not about forgetting. Choosing forgiveness releases physical and psychic energy for purposes that serve our higher self, desires and way of being in the world. Let me explain…….

Most of us have had the experience of being treated in a manner that failed to respect our body, mind or spirit. Perhaps it was through words or actions that shocked, hurt and/or traumatized us, producing an emotional charge that persists over time.  Each time we presence the past-hurt, the emotional energy attached to it resurfaces; over time, this negative emotional charge strengthens and utilizes precious psychic energy. When we choose to forgive and let go of the hurt, our energy is available for thoughts and actions that move us forward in our lives. Each time an old wound resurfaces, we are faced with the opportunity to decide to forgive and let go. We don’t forget the wound; we consciously choose to release the past and move forward. We intentionally choose to honor our present and our future and utilize our psychic energy to move beyond the past.

Where in your life could you choose to forgive and allow yourself the greatest gift of all – the freedom to create a life that honors your highest values and desires?

Janet

For additional insights and observations, check out the following posts:



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