Here is the proposition: Forgiveness as a Lifestyle
Some may be thinking that this sounds good, but how practical is it, really? We just can not walk around here letting people beat up on us and saying that it is okay. It is not okay.
The general consensus is that forgiveness means that it is okay for others to do wrong. If they are forgiven, then they should not be punished. This is because the word “forgiveness” has been used loosely in courts and by creditors.
So, we begin to define forgiveness as someone doing wrong and being let out of jail. Having to take no responsibility for their actions. Forgiveness is also mistaken for someone who does not pay their debts being told they don’t have to be responsible for debts they created. This is a perversion of the true meaning.
Forgiveness is for you. It releases you from the pain of the hurt. Forgiveness is only good for the other person, if they use it for themselves. Just because you forgive does not mean that you must allow the person to come back into your good graces.
If a person is intentionally hurting you, then by all means forgive (the painful memory) and move on. Leave that person in your past. You can not change them. You can only change yourself.
Forgiveness is giving up any hope of trying to change the past. You accept that it happened and you can not change it. You deny the memory any place in your mind and heart. What you are really forgiving is the memory, not really the person.
Forgiveness is a simple spiritual release. It is more than just a decision. After you decide to let go, you believe and trust that God (the Divine) can and will cleanse that painful memory from you. God can and God wills to do so.
My favorite and most simple method for forgiveness is Ho’oponopono. It is accomplished by saying and feeling (the feeling is important), these four healing phrases…
I AM SORRY
PLEASE FORGIVE ME
THANK YOU
I LOVE YOU
When you think of the painful situation apply these four healing phrases to it and you will feel the burden of the pain lighten. Say and feel the phrases over and over until you feel a spiritual release. You will be amazed to see how the memory not only feels lighter, but eventually fades all together.
Be healed. Be well. More Love to You.
i AM she ~the Queen of Forgiveness~ 2 years walking the road of forgiveness, and I find that there really is nothing to forgive. If I am going to forgive a few minutes later, then why go through the trouble of getting upset, hurt or angry at all. I just know that I forgive and I am forgiven. This is my mantra to all. Forgive and be forgiven. Forgive yourself (as God already has), and forgive others as you have been forgiven. As you continue your walk in forgiveness, you will find that more than proverbially — there really is nothing (happening outside of you) to forgive. But for now, just forgive. — http://www.LaurenReliford.com
Read more by Lauren G:
The Lost Art of Forgiveness by Lauren G
Inner Peace [Audio] by Lauren G
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3 comments
I so agree with you Lauren. It has to become a lifestyle. We are sinners everyday, and yet we are forgiven everyday. We have to carry the same Christlike attitude. I know it’s easier said than done, but if it becomes a lifestyle, it does become easier.
Thanks for commenting Rachel. It is a lifestyle. Everyday is a new opportunity to forgive! Yes!
Lauren, I love the idea of forgiveness being a lifestyle. I think if more of us took this perspective on, the world would be a much better place.