Apr 6, 2007

#14: The Importance of Forgiveness (Friday, April 6)

If you're a Christian, today is one of the most important days on your religious calendar. Good Friday: the day when the son of God gave his life so that the sins of the world could be forgotten.
I'm not a Christian, but I think it's as good a time as any to practice the art of forgiveness.

A while back, someone who I considered a very dear friend did something to me that was not only hurtful, but in my opinion, dishonest. The situation made me angry, bitter and sad all at the same time. But, as is my tendency, I swept it under the rug and figured I'd feel better with time. I didn't really speak about it to anyone (I alluded to it in jest a few times though), not even my closest friends - I just kept up my happy front. By failing to confront the situation openly and honestly, I bottled up a lot of negative energy which started to affect my sleeping patterns, my skin, my moods and (inadvertently) those around me.

The Idea: If there is a situation or a person with whom you have unresolved issues, acknowledge it, address it, forgive and move on.

The Cost: $0

The Benefit: Restoration of health, peace of mind, and relationships with those around you. A healthy, happy you is a productive you! :)

Let it roll off your back. ;)

7 comments:

Kameela said...

Interesting how just a few days ago I was reminded of an ongoing issue with my Mother...I pretty much do the same 'sweeping under the rug thing' which is not healthy for anyone involved. I make the resolution to face it head on for a more peaceful Kameela!

The Comedy of Errors Called Me said...

i love it! :)

Anonymous said...

i forgive you SimplEnigma ...now get down and give me a set of 20!!!

From your
hotfooted-traveling-unlicensed masseuse ;P

Crankyputz said...

In light of Easter, this is a great idea. We tend to move on, but forget to forgive. Thanks for the reminder.

Jdid said...

forgiveness and movin on are always issues with me. its difficult

SimplEnigma said...

@Kameela, I too struggle with issues with my mom, but I've come to accept and love her as she is, and have learned to let things with her roll off my back because I don't think they will change.

@Anonymous: :) Only 20? I could do that with one hand tied behind my back! LOL.

@Jdid: I agree...it was really, really difficult for me to make the decision to forgive this person. But the anger was just boiling up inside me, and the results would've probably been more disastrous. Whether it's counseling, confrontation, or some other form of closure, just do it and get past it.

Enchantress said...

True words