The Blessing of Forgiveness

Forgiving and being forgiven are blessings of the utmost magnitude. When we do things that cause deep pain to another, and we’re truly sorry for causing such turmoil and trauma and we’re offered forgiveness, it is such a powerful, profound, and precious gift. The gratitude and relief of receiving forgiveness is incomparable. Of course, this does not make what happened okay, but it opens the doorway to healing, making new beginnings possible.

“Never forget the three powerful resources you always have available to you: love, prayer, and forgiveness.”

H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Forgiveness is a willingness to release all that which weighs us down emotionally – the hurt, the feelings of anger and resentment, as well as shame and guilt. Although forgiveness can happen instantly, it can also be an ongoing process that takes time. If we find that some of those old, negative feelings bubble up now and then, we just need to be gentle with ourselves and choose to keep focusing on healing.

“We may not know how to forgive, and we may not want to forgive; but the very fact we say we are willing to forgive begins the healing practice.”

Louise Hay

In order to forgive and receive forgiveness, it is necessary to allow ourselves the time to acknowledge and process our emotions and feelings without judgment. This is often easier said than done. But as we learn to communicate and express ourselves honestly, we also have the opportunity to practice kindness and empathy for ourselves and others.

Forgiving and being forgiven are the ultimate medicine. As we gently and compassionately give ourselves permission to release the pain, it requires us to get out of the thoughts in our heads and into the love in our hearts. And as we focus on the love in our hearts, we open ourselves to the transformative powers of peace and grace.

“When you forgive, you in no way change the past—but you sure do change the future.”

Bernard Meltzer

Forgiveness is the ultimate form of self-care. It really is like ridding ourselves of a heavy, toxic lead ball that has been keeping us tethered in a self-imposed prison of negative and destructive thoughts and feelings. Letting go of all the poisonous thoughts and feelings restores peace and well-being and allows us to focus on the journey of healing and love, and to bring in even more joyful feelings so we can welcome in a freer, lighter, and happier future.

“We ask for forgiveness, and we forgive others who ask us. In that way, we can experience healing, healing in our souls.”

Ed Dobson